Passengers on STS Express Bus Allegedly Dropped at Kalara Instead of Kalighat

Port Blair, India Jul 28, 2026 ALN: Passengers travelling on the Sri Vijaya Puram–Diglipur State Transport Services (STS) Express bus via Kalighat are facing ongoing inconvenience, with those holding valid tickets for Kalighat reportedly being dropped midway at Kalara instead of reaching their booked destination. This situation raises significant concerns about the reliability and integrity of public transportation services in the region, which are essential for the daily commute and overall mobility of residents.

The STS Express bus service plays a crucial role in connecting various locations within the area, facilitating travel for both local residents and tourists. Kalighat is a significant stop on this route, known for its cultural and historical relevance. It is frequented by individuals seeking to visit local attractions, attend family gatherings, or commute to work. Thus, the reported practice of dropping passengers at Kalara instead of their intended destination has implications not only for individual travelers but also for the broader community that relies on these transport services.

Ramnagar Gram Panchayat Pradhan Mithun Das has raised concerns about this recurring issue, which he claims is largely associated with a specific STS bus driver who allegedly follows this practice frequently. In an interview, Mr. Das stated that the driver often halts the express bus at Navagram to wait for a local bus arriving from behind. Passengers bound for Kalighat are then instructed to disembark from the express bus and board the local bus, allowing the express service to turn back without proceeding to Kalighat. This practice not only undermines the contractual obligation of the bus service to deliver passengers to their ticketed destination but also reflects a lack of respect for the passengers' time and comfort.

Mr. Das recounted a recent incident where passengers on STS Bus No. AN01 N 4178, operating on the Sri Vijaya Puram–Diglipur route via Kalighat, were dropped at Kalara despite having purchased tickets to Kalighat Village. They were informed that they should continue their journey by a connecting bus. This scenario is particularly distressing for those who may not be familiar with the local transport network or who may have mobility challenges. The need to switch buses can be especially burdensome for elderly individuals, women with children, and those carrying luggage, as it adds an unnecessary layer of complexity to their travel experience.

This practice has caused considerable hardship to commuters, particularly elderly individuals, women, and children. Mr. Das emphasized that passengers purchase tickets with the expectation of being dropped directly at Kalighat along with their luggage. Instead, they are forced to change buses midway, often finding the local bus overcrowded, leaving many without seats and compelling them to stand for the remainder of the journey. Such conditions not only compromise passenger comfort but also raise safety concerns, as standing passengers may be at risk of injury during transit.

Over the past several months, Mr. Das has received numerous complaints from affected passengers and has repeatedly brought the matter to the attention of the concerned authorities. However, he alleges that no visible corrective action has been taken, allowing this practice to continue. The lack of response from the transport authorities raises questions about the accountability mechanisms in place for public transportation services. Passengers who rely on these services deserve to have their grievances addressed promptly and effectively.

Demanding immediate intervention, Mr. Das has urged the Transport Department to conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter. He has called for verification of the officially approved route, designated stopping points, and ticketing arrangements of the concerned STS service. If tickets are being issued to Kalighat Village, he insists that passengers must be transported to their ticketed destination and should not be compelled to disembark at Kalara. This situation highlights the importance of clear communication and adherence to established protocols within public transport systems.

Furthermore, he has requested that authorities issue necessary directions to the concerned drivers and conductors to strictly adhere to the prescribed route and passenger service norms. He stated that if any violations are found, appropriate action should be taken against those responsible. This could involve retraining staff, implementing stricter oversight, or even disciplinary measures to ensure compliance with service standards.

Mr. Das expressed hope that the administration would intervene promptly to ensure that such incidents do not recur and that passengers receive the service for which they have paid. The resolution of this issue is not only a matter of ensuring the rights of individual passengers but also reflects the broader responsibility of public transport authorities to provide reliable and equitable services to all members of the community. Ensuring that passengers are delivered to their intended destinations without unnecessary disruptions is a fundamental aspect of maintaining public trust in transportation systems.

The implications of this situation extend beyond the immediate inconvenience faced by passengers. If left unaddressed, it could lead to a decline in ridership as commuters seek alternative means of transportation or become wary of using the STS services altogether. This could have broader economic impacts, particularly in regions where public transport is a critical component of the local economy. Additionally, consistent reports of service failures can damage the reputation of the transport service, leading to calls for reforms and oversight from government bodies.

In conclusion, the ongoing issues faced by passengers on the STS Express bus service highlight the need for effective governance and accountability in public transportation. As communities continue to grow and evolve, ensuring that transport services meet the needs of residents is essential for fostering a connected and thriving society. The concerns raised by Mr. Das and the affected passengers should serve as a catalyst for change, prompting authorities to take the necessary steps to enhance service delivery and restore confidence in public transport systems.