The new two storeyed bus stand, 161 metres in length and 10 meters wide is an arresting sight in the Galle Town with all the props for a comfortably facilitated commute. With many bus stands around the region lacking space for waiting and queuing, shelter from the elements, or even restroom conveniences, this transport facility that promotes safety, leisure as well as accessibility for all its commuters stands unique.

By Sonali Kadurugamuwa | Photography Harsha Wijewardene

The new bus stand building connects one main road to another, with effect to the character lent by the site. To pacify the lengthiness of the waiting times and also to create frequent and ample bus access, three porches at separate levels with a main center as the activity hub, were constructed.

Thirty bus bays are to be found at ground level, while details regarding bus schedules, fares and routes are located throughout the building “Buses can drive down under the porches and spaces that were created at the first floor level have become usable areas,” adds the Architect. According to him, the two porches on either side are waiting areas where “people can just go sit and talk and it functions very well as hang out places too.” Furthermore, two terraces, in case of a Tsunami occurrence, act as a gathering place while being planned for housing shops and a cafe that sits directly across from the cricket stadium. “Incidentally the main porch falls between the gaps of two buildings of the cricket stadium, thus creating a superb view towards the wicket,” he adds.

Operatively, the walkway extends to the railway station while bridging over the canal and a main road, hence preserving time, safety and security from busy traffic and congestion, for the many travelers.

A ten foot wide stairway bridges the bus stand to a walkway, which then pervades to the center of the building. Operatively, the walkway extends to the railway station while bridging over the canal and a main road, hence preserving time, safety and security from busy traffic and congestion, for the many travelers.

The building’s façade captures an old architectural aspect of Dutch influence, in contrast to its steel profile. To the architect, the two bridges “with large black arches are two very elegant features,” of the building complex and designed with its walkways as a way of attracting visitors and even tourists to experience the simplicity of the building’s concept.

Funded by the Ministry of Economic Development, “it’s a gift to the people of Galle,” says the Architect. He believes that it is the peoples’ responsibility to keep places like this clean “for the present and future generations” as a part of preserving the conscious efforts of the country to create spaces of this magnitude for the benefit of its people.

 

Principle Architect/Architectural Firm: DH Wijewardene Associates

Consultant Engineers: Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau of the Southern Region

Project Period: Eight Months

Square Area of Project: 36,000 sqft

Date of Opening: July 11, 2011

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