Panaji, April 27, 2026:
RTI activist Sudip Narayan Tamankar has raised strong objections to the proposed diversion of a prime government land parcel at Patto, Panaji, originally earmarked for public transport infrastructure, and has urged the State government to protect it exclusively for the construction of a Transport Bhavan and Smart City Bus Stand.

In a detailed representation submitted to the Chief Minister, Transport Minister, Chief Secretary, Transport Secretary, and Director of Transport, Tamankar highlighted that the land admeasuring 17,490 square metres near the Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC) bus stand was acquired specifically for transport-related development.

According to information obtained through RTI, approximately 7,000 sq. metres of the land has already been allotted to Kadamba Transport Corporation for setting up a charging station for electric buses. The remaining 10,490 sq. metres, currently being used for interstate bus operations, is now reportedly being sought by the Tourism Department for the construction of a Unity Mall.

Tamankar has strongly opposed this move, stating that such diversion would adversely impact the already strained public transport system in the capital city. He emphasized that private bus operators, taxi operators, rickshaw drivers, and other transport stakeholders depend heavily on the existing infrastructure at Panaji bus stand, which is already facing congestion issues.

He further pointed out that the introduction of Smart City electric buses has led to additional pressure on available bus bays, resulting in operational difficulties for buses arriving from areas such as Mapusa, Ponda, Valpoi, and Calangute. The lack of adequate space has reportedly disrupted scheduled trips and increased congestion.

The representation also raises concerns over the functioning of Kadamba Transport Corporation, alleging that land allotted for EV charging is being used in a manner inconsistent with agreements involving private operators.

Tamankar suggested that if the Transport Department is unable to construct the proposed Transport Bhavan, the land should instead be handed over to Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited (IPSCDL) to develop additional bus stand infrastructure to ease congestion.

He has demanded an immediate reversal of all land allocations and called upon the government to restore the full 17,490 sq. metres for transport purposes, stressing that public transport is a critical service and a major revenue contributor for the State.

The representation comes amid growing concerns over land use changes in urban areas and the prioritisation of commercial projects over essential public