The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has proposed a project called the Marine Drive Destination Management Plan to transform Kochi’s popular Marine Drive walkway into a bustling cultural and tourism hotspot.
The plan involves dividing 1.5 km stretch of the walkway between Cheenavala Bridge and Rainbow Bridge into three zones and leasing them out to private entities who will be responsible for maintaining the walkway and adjacent premises. The leased zones will include cultural spaces for music and art performances, as well as facilities for open dining with backwater views.
The walkway, which is frequented by hundreds of people every day, has become an eyesore due to poor upkeep, lack of cleanliness, improper waste management and anti-social activities. The Marine Drive Destination Management Plan aims to improve physical infrastructure of the walkway and transform it into a lively place even into late night.
A draft action plan has been completed after a detailed study of the walkway, and a Request for Proposal (RfP) will be issued soon by GCDA to attract interested bidders who wish to lease out the proposed zones. Private entities will be responsible for waste management, lighting and security, in addition to conducting cultural activities.
If the plan is implemented successfully, Kochi could soon have nightlife with live music, art shows and food stalls. The walkway could become one of the coolest places in the city, buzzing with activity and attracting tourists and locals alike.
