Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) has initiated the procurement process for the establishment of automated electro-mechanical multi-level car parking facilities at three additional stations, namely Aluva, Vadakkekotta, and South Metro.
This strategic move aims to alleviate the longstanding issue of insufficient parking infrastructure while advancing KMRL’s non-motorised transport agenda. Currently, only the Edappally station boasts such a facility. Acknowledging the persistent demand from commuters, KMRL is taking proactive steps to address parking challenges, which have been cited as a deterrent to Metro ridership. The tender specifications reveal that the forthcoming parking facility at Vadakkekotta is slated to accommodate up to 100 cars within an allotted area of approximately 700 square metres. KMRL has outlined an ambitious timeline, targeting project completion within 10 months.
Despite existing conventional parking options at Edappally, Kaloor, and Aluva stations, utilisation rates remain suboptimal. Motorists frequently attribute this underutilisation to exorbitant parking fees. This initiative not only aims to enhance accessibility to Kochi Metro services but also underscores KMRL’s commitment to promoting sustainable urban mobility solutions. As Kochi continues to evolve as a metropolitan hub, efficient parking infrastructure becomes imperative to accommodate the burgeoning commuter population. With these developments, KMRL is poised to foster a more seamless and commuter-friendly transportation ecosystem in the city.
