KOCHI: Seamless access to various transportation modes and facilitating a comprehensive mobility plan for Greater Kochi form the fulcrum of the concept plan being drawn up by Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) for the second phase of the Vyttila Mobility Hub (VMH) development project.
The governing body of the Vyttila Mobility Hub Society (VMHS) had entrusted KMRL with the preparation of a detailed project report (DPR) for the ₹430-crore second phase development of VMH. EGIS Rail, a consultant engaged by KMRL, has begun work on a detailed concept plan.
The concept plan is being drawn up with technical inputs from Codatu, a French NGO. It will be submitted to the District Collector, who is also the Managing Director of VMHS, next week.
KMRL has set a 10-point priority list for the proposed second phase development of VMH. Providing a pedestrian-friendly connectivity from the metro station to the bus terminal as well as the boat jetty and the rickshaw stand, preferably at grade, to encourage the development of urban spaces and greenery remains one of the top priorities.
The concept plan also proposes a redesign of Vyttila Junction and a traffic plan to accommodate all buses passing through the junction and facilitate their entry and exit from the hub.
It also proposes differentiating city buses from inter-district and inter-State buses to bring down the time spent at the hub and integrating the development plans of agencies like the Greater Cochin Development Authority, PWD, National Highways Authority of India, as well as urban transport plans recommended in the Comprehensive Mobility Plan for Greater Kochi.
The last-mile connectivity will be ensured through the creation of a pick-up and drop-off area for cars, rickshaws, and taxis. Focus will be laid on providing world-class facilities to commuters and drivers, including fuel stations and washing facilities.
Providing easy access to the hub for non-motorised transport; qualitative open spaces and green areas, notably through landscaping of the river front and development of a public square; clear passenger information and signage; and making the area attractive by creating a sub-centre, with office / leisure / entertainment space, houses, shops, and restaurants sum up the priorities of KMRL in VMH phase-II.
