Kochi: The state government has finally taken up the much-delayed Rs 430 crore Vyttila Mobility Hub second phase implementation with a key meet chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan entrusting the Kochi Metro Rail Corporation (KMRL) with the project execution. "The Governing Council meet held at the chief minister's chamber on February 1 decided to ask the KMRL to draw up a detailed project report, including the investment model," sources said. However, a KMRL spokesperson said the decision is yet to be conveyed to it.
The meet also discussed the funding options, whether to go for financial aid from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) or avail of loan from the French agency AFD through the KMRL. The Kerala Industrial and Technical Consultancy Organisation (KITCO) too was in the race to become the implementing agency. Phase-II involves construction of 120 bus bays and an underground parking bay for 1,000 two-wheelers and 800 cars, among others.
A total area of 25.16 acre was earmarked for the second phase. "Maximum area will be utilised for setting up passenger amenities and related infrastructure while commercial space utilisation will be kept to minimum. The second phase will be developed in an eco-friendly manner with provisions for open-spaces and green areas," sources said. The meet was attended by PWD minister G. Sudhakaran, chief secretary Paul Antony, district collector K. Muhammed Y. Safirullah and officials of the Vyttila Mobility Hub Society, among others.
The last Executive meet held on May four last year had considered various conceptual plans including those submitted by the KMRL, however, a final decision eluded. Further proceedings got delayed inordinately forcing the district collector, who is also the VMHS Managing Director, to write to the Local Self-Government Department requesting steps to fast track the project. The original target was to complete the second phase work before the Kochi Metro starts operation in the section.
