Benches at metro bus stops turn haven for boozers

LB Nagar: Hyderabad Metro is a prestigious project of the State government. The services provided by LTMRHL authorities are being misused by anti-social elements. The steel benches installed at Metro bus stations for commuters have become sleeping beds for drunkards and others.

At LB Nagar Metro bus shelter persons in inebriated state are seen taking a siesta on the benches and footpaths. The commuters had no option but to stand and wait for buses at the stops. Speaking to Hans India, some complained that many habitual alcoholics indulged in asking alms from the commuters waiting at the bus stops. It caused lot of inconvenience to the waiting travelers, especially women passengers.

"It became a nuisance to wait at bus shelters taken over by anti-social elements. I have to catch bus in the morning and afternoon daily. We are facing more problems in the afternoon. Metro officials should take action on these drunkards," says Praveena, a job aspirant.

"Daily we see them at the bus stops sleeping and whiling on the benches and foot paths. They also indulge in arguments and smoking at the bus stops causing a nuisance to the public. Though smoking in public places is s punishable offence, but no action has been initiated against them," says K Rama Rao, a retired bank employee.

"In evening times, we see many local drunkards taking over benches as a wine shop is located right opposite to the bus stop. The bus stop near wine shops have become haven for boozers as they drink and in the night sleep on the benches. Some of them even beg for money and pester commuters even after refusing," says Ravi kumar, owner of Ravi photo studio.