"Joka Bus Terminus Receives New Momentum Amid Metro Extension Plans"

With the imminent extension of Metro services up to Majerhat station, the Bengal government has unveiled plans for the second phase of development for the Joka bus terminus to cater to the escalating commuting demands in the region.

The Joka-Esplanade Metro, currently operating on a truncated route from Joka to Taratala, is expected to experience a significant increase in passenger numbers following the upcoming connectivity to Majerhat station. This strategic link will integrate the Metro service with the suburban service (Sealdah-Budge Budge line) and the Circular Railway.

"We will shortly infuse funds for the phase-II development of the depot, in which both the number of buses, new routes and amenities, as well as technological advancement of the depot, will be ensured," stated a West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) officer.

The Joka bus terminus, initially designed as a tram terminus, has evolved over the years to meet changing travel demands in the southern suburbs. The first phase of renovation, costing Rs. 1.8 crore, transformed the terminus into a multi-modal facility supporting bus services.

To further enhance transportation capabilities, WBTC has procured 40 new MIDI non-AC buses with a seating capacity of 34 each through an e-tender from Eicher, each bus costing Rs. 19.4 lakh. Currently, 25 buses from the first phase are in operation on various intra-city and suburban routes.

The newly renovated Joka bus terminus is poised to play a pivotal role in Bengal's growing transit network, keeping pace with the changing transportation landscape in the region. The extension of the Metro and the inclusion of Joka's gram panchayats in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation have spurred urbanization and real estate development in the area. Additionally, Joka serves as a gateway to a vast hinterland, including Ganga Sagar, where efficient mass transit is essential due to rapid urbanization and population growth.

TOI