MANGALURU: The city's service bus stand has effectively turned into an open-air restroom, with passengers, drivers, and conductors frequently relieving themselves in public.

A well-maintained bus stand is often a reflection of a city's progress. However, the private bus stand, which was relocated from Hampankatta near Nehru Maidan nearly twenty years ago, still lacks a permanent site.

The current facility is in a state of disrepair. Near the entrance, the stench from an area used for public urination is overwhelming.

Despite the presence of a public toilet, it remains largely unused by drivers and the public. An attendant at the facility told Express that they avoid confrontation with those who choose to urinate outside. “We charge a small fee for using the toilet, so people prefer to relieve themselves in the open. We’ve faced negative reactions when asking them to use the toilet,” the attendant explained.

The situation has deteriorated further, with the bus stand becoming a hotspot for illicit activities. After 10 pm, young boys are reportedly harassed by homosexuals who gather in the area. Despite the presence of a police beat, these individuals manage to avoid detection.

In a recent incident, a private bus driver was assaulted by sanitation workers after being caught molesting a young boy. Such occurrences are frequent, yet the district administration has not taken effective measures to address them. Moreover, the bus stand is increasingly becoming a center for prostitution.