Decks have been cleared for starting work on the multi-crore modern bus stand proposed for Patiala by October, with the land earmarked for the project being cleared of encroachment and encumbrances.

The foundation stone for the project was laid in February this year, but work could not be started as the land was under illegal occupation.

The private partner of the project has submitted its design and plan outlay to the Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC). According to an agreement between the Punjab Government and Spirit Global, the private partner, work on the project has to start within 120 days of the signing of the pact and completed in 18 months.

PRTC managing director Manvesh Singh Sidhu said the design and plan outlay of the proposed bus stand would be approved by the corporation’s Design and Plan Approval Committee.

The panel is headed by the MD and has Punjab’s chief town planner, local bodies department’s chief town planner, Punjab’s chief architect, Patiala municipal commissioner, PSEB (South) chief engineer, National Highway Authority of India superintending engineer and Patiala tehsildar as members. The PRTC executive engineer is the member secretary of the committee.

The design and plan outlay has been made by Singapore-based architects of Spirit Global. It will be discussed by the committee in its meeting on September 3.

Any amendment to the design and plan outlay will be incorporated according to provisions of the existing laws and byelaws laid down by the Punjab Government.

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