Villagers want restoration of bus stop at Skodi bridge

Villagers have voiced their frustration over the Mandi administration’s recent decision to designate new bus stops for passenger buses arriving from Kotli and Riwalsar, implemented on October 14. Residents previously sought a meeting with officials to address their concerns, but their key demand — restoring the long-standing bus stop at Skodi Bridge — remains unmet.

Rajesh Kapoor, Chairman of Panna Lal Raksha Charitable Trust, emphasised the importance of the Skodi Bridge stop, which has served the community for years. Despite the presence of a small passenger shelter, the space is currently occupied illegally and the administration has taken no action.

The Trust Executive Committee has unanimously rejected the new arrangements, citing significant inconvenience to commuters. Buses from areas like Sadiyana, Veer Sadoh, Tarno, and Badi Gumaunu now drop passengers at the district hospital, forcing them to walk or hire three-wheelers to reach their destinations.

Kapoor also criticised the new bus stop near the cinema hall, located on a congested and steep road with limited capacity for buses. In contrast, the Skodi Bridge offers ample space for organised bus services.

The Trust urges the administration to prioritise the needs of rural commuters, warning that protests and hunger strikes may ensue if their demands are not addressed.