Bus operators stop services as WR shuts Lalbaug crossing

More than 40,000 passengers plying between Makarpura and other parts of the city are stranded since Monday night as VTCOS buses stopped operating after the Lalbaug railway crossing was closed for repairs.

More than 40,000 passengers plying between Makarpura and other parts of the city are stranded since Monday night as VTCOS buses stopped operating after the Lalbaug railway crossing was closed for repairs.

VTCOS officials said Western Railway has opened an alternative route Yogini Vasanti Devi level crossing but they had to stop the services as the route is narrow and plying on that may lead to serious traffic jams.

When the decision of closing the Lalbaug crossing was taken,we had raised our reservations over the alternative route. Moving our buses through the Yogini Vasanti Devi crossing would create problems since the roads are too narrow, said VTCOS operations in-charge Narendra Rana.

Story continues below this ad

He added that another alternate route Vadsar Bridge suggested is too lengthy and costly. The Vadsar Bridge route would take at least 45 minutes more. We would have to spend more on the fuel as well.VTCOS operators have now approached the police commissioner and municipal commissioner to look into the matter.

We have requested them to allow us to use the railway crossing near the More Mega Store. It is comparatively broader road and would also save a lot of time as compared to the Vadsar route. Now,it is up to the officials to find a way out and help the daily commuters, Rana added.

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram