The State Transport Services (STS) in Ferrargunj, the second-largest transport unit in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands after Sri Vijaya Puram, has moved into a new, purpose-built office aimed at improving commuter services and operational efficiency. The facility was inaugurated in a simple ceremony attended by administrative officials, public representatives, and residents of the area.
Ferrargunj’s STS unit serves 19 Panchayats in the tehsil, connecting communities spread across diverse terrain. Until now, the office had been operating from a cramped two-room setup following the dismantling of its previous building. This temporary arrangement caused logistical difficulties for both employees and members of the public who needed to access transport services. Recognising the growing demand for efficient facilities, the Transport Department included the new construction in its action plan, with the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD) carrying out the project to completion.
The new building is designed to meet the administrative and operational needs of a busy transport hub. Equipped with modern amenities, it offers a more organised environment for employees and a more accessible space for the public. Officials believe the improved infrastructure will help the unit better manage schedules, address commuter grievances, and plan service expansions.
Speaking at the inauguration, senior officials highlighted the central role of public transport in connecting remote communities. They noted that for many island residents, STS buses are not only a means of travel but also a crucial link to education, healthcare, and markets. They also pointed to recent operational milestones achieved by the Ferrargunj unit, including covering 95,233 kilometres and serving 97,238 passengers in the past month alone.
The department has been taking steps to address challenges such as a shortage of buses and manpower. Initiatives include purchasing new vehicles, recruiting additional staff, and introducing new routes to better serve underserved areas. One notable development has been the launch of a bus service linking North Bay with Bambooflat by road for the first time, improving connectivity in a previously isolated stretch.
The upgraded facility is also expected to play a role in fostering stronger ties with local Panchayats. Officials have indicated that community feedback will continue to shape service delivery, with responsiveness to public requests being a priority. The STS unit frequently acts on proposals from local bodies to adjust routes, timings, and frequency, ensuring services align with actual commuter needs.
Beyond its primary function as an administrative hub, the new building could serve multiple community purposes when required. This adaptability, combined with improved amenities, is seen as a way to further integrate the transport service into the social and economic life of the region.
The inauguration also underscored the department’s broader vision for public transport in the islands. Plans are in place to expand fleet size, improve route efficiency, and enhance commuter comfort through better facilities. With infrastructure now upgraded in Ferrargunj, the STS unit is positioned to meet both current and future demands.
For commuters, the change is expected to be immediately noticeable in terms of accessibility and service responsiveness. For employees, the new office represents a more functional and comfortable work environment, which could translate into better service delivery.
