Water Metro terminals to come up at Vyttila, Fort Kochi
Kochi Water Metro is planning to develop two new ferry terminals at Vyttila and Fort Kochi.
While the ferry terminal at Vyttila will be located inside the mobility hub, the one planned at Fort Kochi will come up near the new RO-RO vessel terminal. These terminals will ensure better connectivity between various modes of public transport in the city.
The Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) officials said they have already reached an understanding with Vyttila Mobility Hub Society for developing a jetty. The Metro agency said ‘purambokku’ land has been identified near the RO-RO terminal for construction of a jetty at Fort Kochi. The agency will associate with revenue department to develop this jetty.
KMRL is also organizing an architectural design competition for the two ferry terminals. The participants could present their designs either individually or as a team with maximum of four members. The competition is also open to architectural firms, architectural students and schools and colleges offering architecture and design studies.
The registration for the competition will commence on August 20 and conclude on September 10. “The designs have to be prepared bearing in mind the environment the terminals would be located in. They also should have the potential to transform the location into an iconic landmark,” said KMRL spokesperson.
The results of the competition will be published on October 10. While the runner-ups can bag a prize of Rs 25,000 the winners will get Rs 50,000. In addition, the name of the architect or firm will be displayed on the terminals.
KMRL spokesperson said the construction of terminals is expected to be completed in 2018. “The construction activities will commence once the designs are finalised,” she said.
Earlier, the metro agency had signed a memorandum of understanding with the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) for developing an integrated WaterMetro facility at Marine Drive.
The marina, when constructed, will have the capacity to accommodate over 150 boats at a time. “The design for the marina will be done by the general consultant appointed for Water Metro project. GCDA and KMRL will jointly prepare the design and execute it,” said the spokesperson.
On a question regarding introduction of single ticketing system as part of integrating various modes of public transport system, KMRL said it would take considerable time. “The transport wing of KMRL has conducted several discussions on it. The constitution of unified metropolitan transport authority (UMTA) is required for the smooth transition to a single ticketing system,” said KMRL spokesperson.
