MARDAN: Commissioner Mardan Division Syed Muhammad Ali Shah and Regional Police Officer (RPO) Mardan Qasim Ali Khan have decided to make the Chamtar New Bus Terminal fully operational by December, directing officials to complete essential facilities within 15 days.
The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by the commissioner and RPO to review arrangements for opening the terminal in phases. SP Traffic Sajjad Khan, Assistant Commissioner Khurram Sher Zaman Dogar and relevant transport officials attended the meeting.
Officials Ordered to Address Facility Shortcomings
The meeting reviewed the facilities currently available at Chamtar New Bus Terminal and discussed the measures required to make it operational.
Commissioner Syed Muhammad Ali Shah said the terminal had been designed to provide essential travel facilities to passengers and transporters. He noted that locating bus terminals outside urban centres and away from major city routes could help improve traffic flow and reduce public inconvenience.
He said traffic congestion in Mardan had become increasingly serious because of the existing bus terminal, creating difficulties for commuters. The new terminal’s operation is expected to help ease congestion and improve the city’s overall transportation system.
The commissioner directed the assistant commissioner, SP Traffic and TMA officials to conduct a joint inspection of the terminal, assess available facilities and take practical steps to address deficiencies within 15 days.
He said the terminal would begin operating in phases once the necessary arrangements were completed, with full operational status targeted for December.
Police Check Post and Security Arrangements Planned
RPO Qasim Ali Khan said effective security arrangements would be ensured to protect passengers, transporters and the general public.
He directed the relevant authorities to take the necessary steps to establish a police check post at the terminal.
The RPO also instructed SP Traffic to coordinate closely with the district administration to put traffic management and security arrangements in place before the terminal becomes operational.
Measures to Address City Traffic Problems
The meeting also discussed traffic congestion caused by Chingchi and other rickshaws operating within Mardan city.
Participants stressed the need for coordinated measures to improve traffic flow and reduce difficulties faced by commuters.
The planned operationalisation of Chamtar New Bus Terminal is part of efforts to improve transport management, passenger facilities and traffic conditions in Mardan.