KOCHI: The City Corporation’s proposal to set up a women’s-only hotel at Hotel Libra, on Paramara Road, where those evicted from the banks of TP Canal had been lodged, has got a boost, with the project consultant having submitted the detailed project report (DPR).
The civic body entrusted a government-approved firm, M/s Virgo Aqua, with the task of preparing the design and cost details. The agency submitted the project proposal with an estimated cost of Rs 7.45 crore.
As per the detailed project proposal, the hotel will have dormitory facilities and food court apart from other amenities. Major expenses involved as per the DPR are repairing the existing structure, electrification, water supply, sanitation facilities, lift, CCTV, compound wall, adding an additional floor to provide dormitory facilities, food court, furniture and fittings.
The civic body is planning to take up the project on a Public Private Partnership basis. An agreement for a period of 30 years will be signed with the individual or private firm which is ready to invest the initial cost to productively run the hotel and to provide an annual commission to the local body. Mayor Tony Chammany announced the innovative project as part of the Corporation’s 'Mission 15-08-15' programme in August this year.
The hotel will be useful for women executives, students and those visiting the city for various purposes. Meanwhile, apprehensions are rife over the feasibility of running a women’s only hotel in the city.
“Though the concept is unique and helpful for women, its economic viability is in question. The financial feasibility of the project should be taken care of while framing the tender conditions,” said a top civic official.
