Title - Multi-level parking for metro stations Use Vacant Land: Cusat’s Mgmt School Report

Kochi: A study by Cusat’s School of Management Studies (SMS) has proposed the integration of multi-modal transport systems for Edappally and Vyttila. This possibility was highlighted keeping in mind the future parking needs in these areas. The study said Edappally and Vyttila would see commuters using all three modes of transport to enter and exit the city. So parking areas at metro stations should be designed in such a way that they can serve as multi-level parking lots over a period of 20 years.
    SMS director P R Wilson divided the stations into three different categories after analyzing parking needs. Keeping in view the land acquisition problems, the study has proposed the use of vacant land.
    In many places, parking areas will come up in areas in and around the station to ensure maximum passenger comfort. But in some stations like Companypadi, South and Pettah, parking area will be away from the stations because of the non-availability of vacant land. In such cases, exclusive pedestrian-friendly walkways could be provided to access the station, the study said.
    The first category will include intersecting points like terminal locations and big stations like Kalamassery, Edappally, Palarivattom, Kaloor and Kadavantra. These stations need more parking space as they connect various parts of the city.
    In the non-intersecting category, stations like Cochin University, Pulinchodu, Changampuzha Park, Kaloor Stadium need more space while Ambattukavu, Muttam, Maharajas Ground and Elamkulam require lesser parking space.
    The study analyzed the ridership of all 22 stations and assessed the possible number vehicles that need parking space along the Aluva- Pettah Metro Rail corridor. As part of the study, SMS prepared the parking centre layout with a traffic circulation plan for each station.
    “We need to study the report to finalize how much land is required for the project. Parking is an integral part of MRTS. The report will help us develop a comprehensive parking plan,’’ said Kochi Metro Rail Limited MD Tom Jose. The study was based on field survey that had around 1,100 respondents.