Kochi: The '590-crore Vytilla Mobility Hub second phase project will be implemented in two stages so as to avoid inordinate delay in its execution. The idea was discussed in detail during the governing council meet chaired by the chief minister in Thiruvananthapuram the other day.
“As per the plan, the project will be implemented in two stages. First we’ll take up construction of the city service terminal, Vytilla Metro station and connected facilities, Regional bus terminal (Moufussil services) and the Water Metro terminal. The remaining infrastructural facilities, including car-parking and commercial establishments, will be set up at a later stage,” sources said.
The construction works will be taken up while retaining the operations at the existing bus terminal, which will be converted into inter-state services terminal at a later stage. Also the walkway connecting all the terminals across the hub besides the boat jetty will be constructed in the second stage.
Meanwhile, the authorities are now hoping to start the construction works in two months time. “First the Finance Department will have to clear the project report. For this, the main funding agency AFD will have to specify the terms and conditions of the loan. Upon getting its nod, the Cabinet has to sanction before we can start the construction,” they said.
The second phase project is targeted to be implemented in two years following nod of the governing council body on Monday. However, authorities are worried over notification of the Lok Sabha election as the model code of conduct restricts the government to announce new projects till the process is completed in April-May.
