Bhubaneswar: The Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bus Terminal (BSABT) at Baramunda is set to emerge as a major transport and business hub, with IT companies likely to commence operations from the facility soon, officials said.
The move is expected to enhance the terminal’s profile and expand its role beyond a conventional transit point.
Housing and Urban Development Minister and Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) Chairman Krushna Chandra Mahapatra made the announcement Tuesday while addressing a special function at BSABT to hand over shop keys to beneficiaries.
The event was attended by BDA Vice Chairman Chanchal Rana, the local corporator and senior officials of the authority.
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In his address, Minister Mahapatra emphasised that the inclusion of IT companies at BSABT would enhance the terminal’s significance, boosting its business potential and footfall.
He also highlighted the recent announcement by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi regarding the establishment of a global visa application centre at the terminal, which will further cement its status as a multifaceted hub.
“The integration of IT firms will inject new energy into the terminal, creating a vibrant atmosphere and offering small vendors the opportunity to thrive,” he said.
The BDA has decided to allocate space across two floors of the state-of-the-art terminal for IT companies, creating a unique blend of transportation, technology, and services all under one roof.
This move is expected to draw a surge in daily footfall, benefiting not just the IT companies but also the small vendors operating within the terminal.
Rana also spoke about the positive impact of the new businesses on the local vendors.
“Previously, many vendors had to set up their stalls outside the terminal.
Now, they have been provided with air-conditioned shops, ensuring a more dignified and profitable livelihood,” he said.
The BDA’s initiative follows the successful allotment of 112 shops at BSABT in September, conducted through a lottery system.
The shops, available on a monthly rental basis, are equipped with modern amenities, including uninterrupted power supply, water connections, and 24/7 security.
The allotment process was carried out after a detailed survey by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC), and the previous manager of the old Baramunda bus terminal.
The new terminal, spread over 11 acres, is the largest of its kind in Odisha, handling over 1,500 buses and serving nearly 20,000 passengers daily.
As one of the state’s most critical transport hubs, BSABT is set to become an even more essential centre for commerce, technology, and travel.
With the dual integration of IT companies and improved vendor spaces, BSABT looks to foster a dynamic and thriving business ecosystem that will benefit both the local economy and travellers alike.
