RAWALPINDI: Despite generating nearly Rs80 million annually, Pirwadhai General Bus Stand remains in a shocking state of disrepair, exposing severe administrative neglect and raising questions about the use of public funds.

The second largest bus terminal in Punjab presents a grim picture with broken roads, stagnant sewer water, heaps of garbage and unchecked encroachments. Once envisioned as a central transport hub for Rawalpindi and Islamabad, the facility now struggles to provide even basic amenities to passengers.

Spread over 260 kanals, the bus stand handles more than 1000 buses daily connecting major cities across Pakistan. However, the infrastructure tells a different story. Bus bays have turned into pools of dirty water, walls and roofs are crumbling and sanitation conditions remain alarming.

Passengers, particularly women, face serious difficulties due to lack of proper waiting areas and washroom facilities. Many are forced to wait outside in unsafe conditions or rely on nearby private establishments for basic needs, highlighting the absence of essential public services.

Encroachments have further worsened the situation as vendors occupy waiting areas, leaving little space for travelers. At night, the terminal reportedly becomes a hub for illegal activities, raising safety concerns for commuters and transport staff.

Officials admit that revenue from the bus stand is diverted towards salaries and pensions instead of reinvestment in the facility. While proposals exist to upgrade or relocate the terminal, no concrete progress has been made, leaving Pirwadhai Bus Stand as a stark example of urban mismanagement and neglected public infrastructure.