IT Firms to Begin Operations at Baramunda BSABT, Boosting Its Role as Transport–Business Hub

Bhubaneswar: The Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bus Terminal (BSABT) at Baramunda is poised to evolve into a major transport-cum-business hub, with Information Technology (IT) companies set to begin operations from the facility in the near future. The development is expected to significantly enhance the commercial and economic activity at Odisha’s largest bus terminal.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by Housing and Urban Development Minister and Chairman of the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, during a special function organised at BSABT for the handover of shop keys to beneficiaries. BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana, the local corporator and senior officials of the authority were present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mahapatra said that the integration of IT companies would add a new dimension to the terminal, transforming it into more than just a transport facility. He recalled that the Hon’ble Chief Minister had earlier announced the establishment of a global visa application centre at BSABT. “With IT companies also operating from the terminal, overall activity and footfall will increase substantially. This vibrant environment will help small vendors allotted shops here to see their businesses flourish,” he said.

The BDA, which currently manages the state-of-the-art terminal, has decided to rent out space across two floors of BSABT for IT firms. This move will create a unique model that combines transport services, commercial activity and technology-driven enterprises under one roof.

Highlighting the benefits for small traders, Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana said the presence of IT companies would significantly increase daily footfall, directly supporting vendors operating inside the terminal. “Earlier, many vendors were compelled to operate outside the old bus terminal. At the new BSABT, they have been provided air-conditioned shops, enabling them to earn a dignified livelihood,” he noted.

It may be recalled that in September last year, the BDA conducted a lottery for allotment of 112 shops at BSABT on a monthly rental basis. Beneficiaries were selected following a detailed survey carried out by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC), which had managed the old Baramunda bus terminal. The allotted shops are equipped with uninterrupted power supply, water connections and round-the-clock security, and lease agreements have already been executed with the BDA.

Spread over 11 acres, BSABT is the largest bus terminal in Odisha, catering to over 1,500 buses and nearly 20,000 passengers daily on inter-state and intra-state routes. With the addition of IT companies and other service-oriented facilities, the terminal is set to emerge as a vibrant urban node blending mobility, commerce and employment opportunities.