RTA Plans Modern Upgrade for Pirwadhai Bus Stand

The Regional Transport Authority has outlined extensive plans to revamp the historic Pirwadhai General Bus Stand into a modern and efficient transit hub. The proposal was discussed at a special meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Nadeem Nasir. Situated on a 210 kanal plot since 1976, the Class-C terminal handles approximately 40,000 commuters daily, with 65 vehicles transiting every hour.

Currently, 37 stands are operational, serving 65 transport companies, but the existing facilities require significant modernization to accommodate increasing demand.

From FY 2018-19 to FY 2025-26, the terminal generated Rs668.2 million in revenue, excluding earnings from shops, fuel stations, and eateries. Of this, Rs170.1 million was allocated to development projects and Rs67.1 million to operational expenses, leaving around Rs431 million in the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation’s general fund.

To address future requirements, the committee suggested elevating the terminal's status from Class-C to Class-B, drafting a comprehensive master plan, and increasing the number of bus bays to 80. Additional measures include installing a computerized ticketing and scheduling system to optimize vehicle arrivals, departures, parking, and traffic flow.

The committee also proposed constructing a secure boundary wall and setting up a centralized control room to enhance security, which currently falls short due to missing boundaries, ineffective CCTV cameras, and inadequate entry and exit checks.

Furthermore, officials discussed hiring a professional security firm and deploying at least 25 security guards, along with implementing the Travel Eye tracking system and improving night security. To enhance passenger convenience, recommendations include upgraded waiting lounges with gender-segregated facilities, better accessibility for persons with disabilities, clean drinking water, improved sanitation, ample seating, and first-aid services.

Rest areas for drivers and bus hostesses, as well as designated zones for vehicle washing and maintenance, are also planned. Deputy Commissioner Nadeem Nasir affirmed the district administration's commitment to transforming the Pirwadhai Bus Stand into a state-of-the-art terminal, stating that development work and administrative reforms will commence shortly.