The dilapidated footpath at Edappally
KOCHI: The bad state of footpaths and inadequate pedestrian facilities along the Metro Rail corridor between Edappally and Judge’s Avenue will be improved as the Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is trying to coordinate with various stakeholders to complete the restoration works as early as possible.
Of the total stretch, the condition of the road between Judge’s Avenue signal and Deshabhimani is the worst, as the lack of footpath and broken slabs and drains are making it difficult for the public to walk along this stretch. There is not even a footpath between Judge’s Avenue and Kaloor Junction.
“We are planning a comprehensive plan for the development of major junctions along the Metro Rail corridor. An improved pedestrian zone is a major element of the proposal. Once the junction development plan is completed, the condition of the pedestrian infrastructure will also be improved. And, for the particular stretch near Kaloor, we are trying to coordinate with various stakeholders, including KSEB, in connection with the utility shifting so as to complete the footpath works,” said KMRL managing director APM Mohammed Hanish.
Padmasarovaram project
The KMRL is also looking for the revival of the Padamasarovaram project which was proposed in 2005. The project mainly aims at constructing a walkway from Elamkulam linking the Sahodaran Ayyappan Road and Subhash Chandra Bose Road. The walkway will be set up along the side of Chilavannoor canal. Along with the development of a new public space in the city where Kochiites can enjoy their leisure time, the plan also includes the rejuvenation of the water body. Along with the cleaning of the canal, the proposal also includes the plating of various species of water plants which will help in enhancing the ecological balance of the area and cleanliness of the water. A meeting with botanists was held earlier and once the KMRL undertakes the project, the tenders will be floated.
The KMRL is looking into the possibilities of undertaking the Padmasarovaram project which is likely to be included in the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) project. The estimated cost for the Padmasarovaram project is nearly Rs 10 crore.
Vertical gardens
The plan for setting up of vertical gardens along the Metro Rail stretch is also progressing. According to Hanish, the maintenance of vertical gardens will be entrusted with Kudumbasree. As per the plan, every sixth pillar of the Kochi metro will be a vertical garden.
