The Bhiwandi State Transport (ST) depot has been severely affected by waterlogging during the monsoon, with stagnant rainwater, clogged drains, accumulated garbage and mosquito breeding creating difficulties for thousands of passengers. The nearly 65-year-old depot is awaiting redevelopment, but commuters are seeking immediate measures to tackle the problems until the new facility is completed.
Heavy rainfall over the past month has left large sections of the depot submerged, forcing passengers to walk through dirty water and slush to access buses. The situation is particularly challenging for schoolchildren, women, senior citizens and daily commuters. Passing vehicles frequently splash contaminated water onto pedestrians, adding to their discomfort.
Residents said the depot’s drainage system has reportedly remained disrupted for the past five to six years. Rainwater that was earlier connected to the Bhiwandi civic body’s drainage network now accumulates within the premises. Garbage and blocked drains have further worsened the situation.
The state government has floated a tender for demolishing and redeveloping the ageing depot, while a temporary facility is also proposed. However, residents believe temporary drainage and sanitation arrangements should be implemented immediately.
Thousands Rely on ST Services
The depot remains a crucial transport hub for people travelling between Bhiwandi, Kalyan, Thane and nearby areas. Around 80 ST trips to Kalyan and nearly 50 services to Thane reportedly operate daily, with approximately 66 buses stationed at the depot.
Commuters have also raised concerns about limited direct connectivity to Borivali. Only one bus reportedly operates on the route, forcing many passengers to travel through Thane, increasing journey time and expenses.
Taj Khan, a local resident, said authorities should not allow commuters to face waterlogging and sanitation problems while redevelopment remains pending. He urged the civic body and ST administration to coordinate on temporary drainage and cleanliness measures.
Aamir Faiyaz Shaikh, a regular commuter, said monsoon conditions make travelling through the depot particularly difficult.
Bhiwandi ST Depot Manager Keshav Mahajan said permanent drainage repairs were currently not feasible because the existing structure is being replaced. He said one bus is presently operating from Bhiwandi towards Borivali.
Source: The Free Press Journal
