Ujjain’s Dewas Gate bus stand was closed from October 12 and bus services were shifted to alternate locations as the administration began clearing space for infrastructure work ahead of Simhastha 2028. The first day passed without resistance, with no buses arriving at the city-centre stand, officials said.
Regional Transport Officer Santosh Malviya said enforcement teams patrolled Dewas Gate, Nanakheda, Kanipura Road and Mandi Chauraha to monitor compliance. “All bus operators have extended their cooperation to us,” Malviya said.
The closure was publicly announced on October 9. An order issued by the regional transport authority and the Ujjain divisional commissioner barred buses from operating out of Dewas Gate and directed operators to use designated alternative locations. The order followed consultations with local government departments and bus operators.
Operators violating the directions could face court action, cancellation of permits and registrations, and challans, according to the administration. The restrictions are intended to support Simhastha preparations and reduce congestion as the city undertakes road widening, construction of an elevated bridge and other infrastructure works.
The existing Nanakheda bus stand, spread over 1.689 hectares, will be developed by the Ujjain Municipal Corporation. Planned facilities include parking, drinking water, toilets and sanitation services. Management of the stand is proposed to be transferred to the Corporation. Lok Seva buses that previously operated from Dewas Gate will also use Nanakheda.
The administration is planning additional dispersal points for different routes. Buses to Maksi and Tarana will operate from vacant land near Makodiya Aam on Agar Road. Services towards Indore Road will run from Nanakheda, while buses on the Badnagar Road route will operate from Mullapura. All buses have been directed to use the bypass.
Sleeper coaches will operate from the ground opposite the Engineering College and, temporarily, from the rear of Nanakheda bus stand. The arrangement separates long-distance coach operations from the main bus movement being redirected to Nanakheda.
The changes are being implemented as Ujjain prepares for the infrastructure and crowd-management requirements associated with Simhastha 2028. The administration has not announced a reopening date for Dewas Gate bus stand. Further changes are expected as additional bus stands are planned and construction work progresses.
