Odisha plans airport-like bus terminal in Baripada

Baripada: Odisha is set to give Baripada a major upgrade in public transport infrastructure with plans for a state-of-the-art bus terminal designed on the lines of an airport, aimed at transforming the town into a key travel hub in northern Odisha.

Urban development minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra announced the project on Tuesday while chairing a review meeting, describing it as a landmark initiative for Mayurbhanj district. The upcoming facility will be named the Atal Bus Stand, in honour of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

“Baripada will emerge as a major transport hub. Funds will not be a constraint for this project. All concerned departments must work in close coordination to deliver it on time and ensure the highest quality standards,” the minister said.

Spread across five acres, the new terminal will focus on passenger comfort, safety and smooth operations. Planned amenities include spacious waiting halls, modern restrooms, food courts, retail outlets and dedicated facilities for persons with disabilities, reflecting an effort to make the terminal both inclusive and commuter-friendly.

In keeping with its green focus, the civic body will also undertake plantation drives, with over 6,000 saplings to be planted in and around the terminal premise.

Once completed, the modern bus terminal is expected to ease traffic congestion in Baripada and significantly improve connectivity to key destinations such as Bhubaneswar, Balasore and Kolkata.

(with inputs from agencies)