Kochi's KSRTC Bus Terminal Renovation Complete, New Rs 13 Crore Facility Nears Tender Stage
The city of Kochi is on the brink of a significant infrastructure upgrade as the renovated KSRTC bus terminal prepares for inauguration, while construction for a new terminal at Karikkamuri advances toward the tender stage. Both projects are being expedited by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and the Public Works Department (PWD), with the new facility estimated to cost approximately Rs 13 crore.
Renovation Details and Inauguration Timeline
Renovation works at the existing terminal have been fully completed, according to MLA T J Vinod. The building's foundation has been raised by two feet to effectively prevent waterlogging, a common issue during heavy rains. Kadappa stones have been laid over the elevated base to ensure rainwater does not enter the premises, enhancing durability and passenger comfort.
Vinod highlighted that the upgraded facility includes a separate toilet complex located outside the main building, along with dedicated restrooms for crew members and a waiting area for passengers. The total cost of the renovation amounted to about Rs 1.82 crore, funded through a combination of sources: Rs 1 crore from BPCL Kochi Refinery under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Rs 70 lakh from the MLA's development fund, and Rs 12 lakh from a private financial institution.
The renovated terminal is expected to be inaugurated within the next few days, coinciding with the formal launch of the new terminal project, marking a dual celebration for Kochi's public transport infrastructure.
New Terminal Construction and Financial Adjustments
Simultaneously, the new terminal at Karikkamuri is progressing, with the final estimate set to be completed in the coming days. A PWD official stated, "Once the estimate is finalized, it will be submitted for the chief engineer's approval. Tenders can be invited only after the approval is obtained." This step is crucial for moving the project forward and ensuring transparency in the construction process.
Due to financial constraints, KSRTC has scaled down the initial plan for the new terminal. The earlier proposal, which included 33 bus bays, has been revised to 22 bays. Despite this reduction, the project remains comprehensive, featuring a steel-roofed structure for the bus bays and a separate building to house administrative offices and operational facilities. This downsizing reflects a pragmatic approach to budget management while still aiming to enhance capacity and efficiency.
Expedited Procedures and Future Impact
Both KSRTC and PWD are working diligently to expedite all necessary procedures, from finalizing estimates to obtaining approvals and inviting tenders. The new terminal's estimated cost of Rs 13 crore underscores its significance as a major investment in Kochi's transportation network, expected to alleviate congestion and improve service quality for commuters.
The combined efforts on these projects highlight a commitment to modernizing public transport in Kochi, with the renovated terminal addressing immediate needs like flood-proofing and passenger amenities, and the new terminal promising long-term benefits through expanded facilities. As these developments unfold, they are poised to transform the city's bus infrastructure, making travel more reliable and comfortable for residents and visitors alike.
