Aimed at ushering in better civic sense among Kochiites and visitors to the city, Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) intends to launch an initiative titled ‘Courtesy Kochi’.
Yet another campaign that is on the cards is one to increase footfall in metro trains.
“The courtesy campaign aims to inculcate courteous behaviour while using the metro system and also in other public spaces. It will be launched post-Onam. It also intends to drive home the message that all public spaces have to be maintained well. As for us, we are leaving no stone unturned to ensure cleanliness in metro stations, their vicinity and in trains,” said KMRL managing director Elias George.
The outcome of the campaign would improve Kochi’s brand value globally, he added.
Walkways
Referring to opposition from a section of traders and others to KMRL’s pedestrianisation initiatives, Mr. George said that there was much opposition to the pedestrian walkway-cum-cycle track off Panampilly Nagar.
“The very same people who opposed the project are now the main beneficiaries of the walkway that adheres to global standards,” he said.
On opposition to the walkway under construction that will link Ernakulam Boat Jetty with Maharajas College Ground Metro Station, he said the ownership of areas through which the walkway would be built would not change. The premises through which it passes would wear a much better look, while creating a safe corridor for pedestrians. “All these speak of the need for change of mindset,” added Mr. George.
The KMRL has already begun a campaign saying “ the gooseberry has begun to taste sweet”, referring to how hassles borne by people during the metro’s four-year construction phase has begun to yield rewards in the form of the city getting Kerala’s first modern system of mass-rapid transport.
More footfall
The KMRL is also gearing up to initiate a campaign to increase the metro’s passenger patronage.
“All metro rail projects in India gained patronage a year or so after the launch. More feeder buses and autorickshaws have been envisaged when the 5-km-long Palarivattom-Maharaja’s Ground corridor is commissioned later this year. This will enable better last-mile connectivity for metro commuters,” said a KMRL spokesperson.
