Overflowing garbage bins at Vaeinthankulam new bus stand at Palayamkottai in Tirunelveli district.
| Photo Credit: A. SHAIKMOHIDEEN
Overflowing trash bins and foul odour emanating at Vaeinthankulam New Bus Stand in Tirunelveli have raised serious health concerns and drawn complaints from shopkeepers and commuters.The bus stand, which serves thousands of passengers everyday and functions as a key hub for long-distance buses across the State, is facing increasing sanitation challenges. Overflowing bins, scattered waste and unregulated public urination within the premises have emerged as major concerns, affecting hygiene and public comfort.Muthupandi, a shopkeeper at the bus stand, said the trash bins were overflowing most of the time and not cleaned regularly. “This happens most days, and sometimes stray dogs are attracted to the area.”He further noted that although restrooms were available, the area near the compound wall was frequently used to answer nature’s call..Another snack vendor pointed out that signboards installed to discourage public urination were largely ignored. “Strict action should be taken and penalties imposed on those who misuse public spaces.” she said.Also, while conservancy workers collected waste from the bins, other parts of the platform remained unattended, leaving commuters and shopkeepers irked.Mohan, a commuter from Sankarankovil, emphasised the need for better sanitation at the bus stand. “Compared to other places, this bus stand has become an easy spot for people to pollute due to lack of surveillance,” he said.With the bus stand being a critical transit hub in the region, proper sanitation played a huge role in not only providing proper comfort to passengers but also in preventing potential health hazards.Speaking on the issue, Tirunelveli Corporation Commissioner Monika Rana said a dedicated team of sanitary workers had been deployed at the bus stand, “The specific sanitary officer will be instructed to ensure that trash bins are cleared everyday,” she added.She further noted that new signboards would be installed to prevent public urination, and strict measures would be taken to maintain cleanliness across the premises. Published - September 27, 2025 08:31 pm IST
