#4493
Malayaali
Kerala - Green Growth




Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Kerala Metro
Posts: 559 Kochi may have India's first privately owned Metro network

Happen to notice this. While hyderabad network is covered in the article which is at very early stages, the author has forgotten chennai where phase I is going really fast. Just observed this, thought of sharing. Ignore if this is irrelevant.

6th platform commissioned at Ekm Jn.
Relieving traffic at Ekm Junction RS, 6th platform has been commissioned after the construction started 8 years ago!
The new platform will be used for passenger train services
എറണാകുളം സൗത്ത് റെയ്ല്വേ സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ ആറാം നമ്പര് പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം പ്രവര്ത്തന സജ്ജമായി. ഇന്നലെ വൈകിട്ട് 7.30നു പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം ഔദ്യോഗികമായി കമ്മിഷന്ചെയ്തു. ഇന്നു മുതല് പാസഞ്ചര് ട്രെയ്നുകള് ഇവിടേക്ക് എത്തിത്തുടങ്ങും.

മേല്ക്കൂരയും കുടിവെള്ളവുമടക്കമുള്ള അടിസ്ഥാന സൗകര്യമൊരുക്കേണ്ടതിനാല് ഈ പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോമില്നിന്നു ട്രെയ്നുകള് യാത്ര ആരംഭിക്കാന് ഒരു മാസംകൂടി വൈകും. വര്*ഷങ്ങളുടെ കാത്തിരിപ്പിനൊടുവിലാണ് എറണാകുളം സൗത്ത് സ്റ്റേഷനിലെ ആറാം പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം കമ്മീഷന് ചെയ്യുന്നത്. സ്ഥലപരിമിതിയില് വീര്പ്പുമുട്ടുന്ന റെയ്ല്വേ സ്റ്റേഷന് ഏറെ ആശ്വാസമായിരിക്കുകയാണ് പുതിയ പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം.

ഇവിടെനിന്നു പുറപ്പെടുകയും എത്തിച്ചേരുകയും ചെയ്യുന്ന പാസഞ്ചര് ട്രെയ്നുകള്ക്കുവേണ്ടിയാകും ഈ പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം ഉപയോഗിക്കുക. എറണാകുളത്തുനിന്നു മെമു ട്രെയ്നുകള് സര്വീസ് തുടങ്ങുന്നതോടെ അവയ്ക്കും ഈ പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം ഉപയോഗിക്കാം. പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം കമ്മിഷന് ചെയ്തതോടെ സൗത്ത്സ്റ്റേഷന്റെ കിഴക്കേ പ്രവേശന കവാടം യാത്രക്കാര്ക്കു കൂടുതല് പ്രയോജനകരമാകും.

രണ്ടു ദിവസം ഗതാഗത നിയന്ത്രണമേര്പ്പെടുത്തി, യുദ്ധകാലാടിസ്ഥാനത്തിലാണ് റെയ്ല്വേ പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോമിന്റെ അവസാനഘട്ട ജോലികള് പൂര്ത്തിയാക്കിയത്.

ട്രാക്കിലെ പ്രീ നോണ് ഇന്റര്ലോക്കിങ് ജോലികള് ശനിയാഴ്ചതന്നെ പൂര്ത്തിയാക്കിയിരുന്നു. ഇന്നലെ സിഗ്നലിങ്, ഇലക്ട്രിഫിക്കേഷന് ജോലികളും പൂര്ത്തിയാക്കി.

പുതിയ ലൈനിന്റെ സിഗ്നലിങ് കൂടി ഉള്പ്പെടുത്തി പുതിയ റൂട്ട് റിലേ ഇന്റര്ലോക്കിങ്(ആര്ആര്ഐ) പാനല് സ്ഥാപി ക്കുന്ന ജോലികളും പൂര്ത്തിയാക്കിയിട്ടുണ്ട്. ഇന്നലെ വൈകിട്ട് ഒരു ഡീസല് എന്ജിനും ഒരു ഇലക്ട്രിക് എന്ജിനും ഇതിലൂടെ ട്രയല് റണ് നടത്തി. 7.30ഓടെയാണു പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം കമ്മിഷന് ചെയ്തത്.

പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം ഉപയോഗയോഗ്യമായത് റെയ്ല്വേ സ്റ്റേഷന്റെ ഇന്നത്തെ അവസ്ഥയില് ഏറെ പ്രയോജനകരമാണെന്നു സീനിയര് ഡിവിഷനല് ഓപ്പറേറ്റിങ് മാനെജര് ജെ. വിനയന് പറഞ്ഞു.

എട്ടു പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോമെങ്കിലും ഇവിടെ വേണ്ടതാണ്. മുഖ്യമായും പാസഞ്ചര് ട്രെയ്നുകള്ക്കായാകും പുതിയ പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം പ്രധാനമായും ഉപയോഗിക്കുക.

ആദ്യ ഘട്ടത്തില് എറണാകുളത്തേക്കു വരുന്ന പാസഞ്ചര് ട്രെയ്നുകളാകും ഇവിടെ പ്രവേശിപ്പിക്കുക.

മേല്ക്കൂര, യാത്രക്കാര്ക്കു വിശ്രമിക്കാനുള്ള സൗകര്യങ്ങള്, ട്രെയ്നില് കുടിവെള്ളം നിറയ്ക്കാനുള്ള സൗകര്യം, കാന്റീനുകള് തുടങ്ങിയവ ഒരുക്കാന് ഇനിയും സമയം വേണമെന്നതിനാല്, ഒരു മാസത്തിനു ശേഷമേ ഇവിടെനിന്നു ട്രെയ്നുകള് പുറപ്പെടാനാവൂഎന്നും, ഇക്കാര്യങ്ങള് റെയ്ല്വേ വേഗത്തില് പൂര്ത്തിയാക്കുമെന്നും അദ്ദേഹം പറഞ്ഞു.

പ്ലാറ്റ്ഫോം നിര്മാണം നടക്കുന്നതിനാല്, ശനി, ഞായര് ദിവസങ്ങളില് എറണാകുളം മേഖലയില് ട്രെയ്ന് ഗതാഗത നിയന്ത്രണം ഏര്പ്പെടുത്തിയിരുന്നു. ഇന്നു മുതല് ട്രെയ്നുകള് പതിവുപോലെ സര്വീസ് നടത്തും.

Metrovartha (http://www.metrovaartha.com/2011/05/23113034/sixthnoplatform-20110523.html)

SPV formation to be taken up
KOCHI: The formation of Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) which was once denied the launching of hi-tech low-floor A/C buses in the city is likely to be taken up with renewed vigour.
With the UDF regaining power of the state, the Corporation Council in which the UDF has the majority is planning to approach the government to form a SPV for controlling the operation of low-floor A/C buses and semi-low floor buses in the city. The buses were introduced as part of the Public Transport project under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).
At present, 35 A/C Volvo buses and 34 semi-low floor buses are being operated by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).
“The buses are now fully operated by the KSRTC. They are sidelining the Kochi Corporation, ignoring the fact that it was for the civic body that the funds were allotted from the JNNURM,” said a Corporation official.
The official said that as per the JNNURM guidelines, it is mandatory to form an SPV for running these buses in the city. “The biggest tragedy is that at present the elected representatives of the local body do not have a say in deciding the routes of these buses. The majority of the buses which were allotted to resolve the travelling woes of the city are plying to the suburbs,” he said.
The official said that the civic body would soon approach the state government to re-consider the issue and take necessary steps to make sure that a SPV is constituted for controlling the operation of JNNURM buses.
Meanwhile, the KSRTC will soon commence bus service in the Thevara-Aluva route via Vallarpadom four-lane highway. Four buses, including two Volvo A/C low-floor buses and Thiru Kochi buses each, will be introduced in the route on May 31 which will be celebrated as Bus Day.
Though the new route will be longer than the existing Palarivattom-Edappally route by two km, it is expected to save at least 20 minutes.
There are plans to start the services to Mattancherry and Fort Kochi too. The Road Transport Authority (RTA) will soon give permit for these services. The� KSRTC has already� taken the decision to roll out 100 buses in Kochi.
According to the affidavit filed by the state government before the Kerala High Court, there were only 50 more city permits left in Kochi. After the introduction of Thiru Kochi services, the number has decreased further. So the KSRTC plans to start new services in lieu of the permits of private buses that have expired.
IBN Live (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/spv-formation-to-be-taken-up/153729-60-122.html)

Kochi may have India's first privately owned Metro network

Source (http://rtn.asia/410_kochi-may-have-indias-first-privately-owned-metro-network)

Its pity that our CM is making bogus statements about Kochi metro without making any consultations with experts like E Sreedharan. His intentions are only to put dust in the eyes of people !!!! This shows the interests of CM in the development of Kochi !! We can see more bogus statments like this in the
coming days !!!

Read this.. E Sreedharan says that it will be difficult to find private investors for Kochi Metro. So the efforts made by VS govt was 100% right !!! Instead of making bogus statement, present CM should do something to get the central approval for Kochi metro.

http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?contentId=9378595&tabId=11&contentType=EDITORIAL&BV_ID=@@@

^^
In the case of Kochi, CM Chandy should give focus on more important areas like City Road development (Widen all the city roads to 4/6 lanes), Quality walkway and other facilities for pedestrians, better Drinking water supply, Drainage/sewage system, Waste management system. Already traffic is hell here

Nothing wrong with giving most priority to projects like Smartcity & Metro railway, but make sure the common mans basic needs are satisfied. and he should think twice before jumping into these kind of bogus comments.

^^
In the case of Kochi, CM Chandy should give focus on more important areas like City Road development (Widen all the city roads to 4/6 lanes), Quality walkway and other facilities for pedestrians, better Drinking water supply, Drainage/sewage system, Waste management system. Already traffic is hell here

Nothing wrong with giving most priority to projects like Smartcity & Metro railway, but make sure the common mans basic needs are satisfied. and he should think twice before jumping into these kind of bogus comments.

Last VS govt had already approved 150 crore for the road development of Kochi. Corporation and other departments have not yet started any work. Eventhough funds are allocated, Corporation officials are clueless about the construction work. People elected corporation members with lots of expectations. But mayor and others showed the public that they are incapable to do something. We have already seen this during IPL. In the next 5 years, development of Kochi will be standstill as we have got an incapable Mayor, Central Minster and incapable CM. Hope the other ministers from the district will do something for Kochi !!!

Mr. Arun, please for gods sake dont discuss politics here!! this is a pretty good going forum!

Rays of hope for Kochi Metro
* E Sreedharan and KV Thomas discussed on the possibilities of undertaking Kochi metro project.
* Sreedharan insisted on central govt. involvement.
* State has not agreed to share holding pattern suggested by the centre.
* If state agrees to part share against the Central funds, there is hope for quick take off of the project.

ന്യൂഡല്ഹി: കൊച്ചി മെട്രോ റെയില് പദ്ധതി നടത്തിപ്പിനായി കേന്ദ്ര ഭക്ഷ്യ പൊതുവിതരണ മന്ത്രി പ്രൊഫ. കെ.വി. തോമസും ഡല്ഹി മെട്രോറെയില് കോര്പ്പറേഷന് മാനേജിങ്ഡയറക്ടര് ഇ. ശ്രീധരനും കൂടിക്കാഴ്ച നടത്തി. കൊച്ചി മെട്രൊ പൊതുമേഖലയില് നടപ്പാക്കണമെന്ന അഭിപ്രായം ഇ. ശ്രീധരന് ആവര്ത്തിച്ചു. പൊതു-സ്വകാര്യ പങ്കാളിത്തത്തില് പദ്ധതി പ്രായോഗികമല്ലെന്ന് വ്യക്തമാക്കിയ അദ്ദേഹം, കൊച്ചി മെട്രോയ്ക്കായി രാഷ്ട്രീയസമ്മര്ദം ശക്തമാക്കണമെന്നും ആവശ്യപ്പെട്ടു. കേന്ദ്ര, സംസ്ഥാന സര്ക്കാറുകുടെ തുല്യ ഓഹരി പങ്കാളിത്തത്തോടെ പദ്ധതി നടപ്പാക്കണമെന്നാണ് കേരളത്തിന്റെ ആവശ്യം. ഓഹരിയെച്ചൊല്ലിയുള്ള തര്ക്കമാണ് പദ്ധതി യാഥാര്ഥ്യമാവാനുള്ള പ്രധാന തടസ്സമെന്ന് കേന്ദ്രസര്ക്കാര് വൃത്തങ്ങള് പറഞ്ഞു. ഓഹരിക്കു പകരം സഹായധനം നല്കാമെന്നാണ് കേന്ദ്ര സര്ക്കാര് വാഗ്ദാനം. എന്നാല്, ഡല്ഹി മെട്രോയിലേതുപോലെ കേന്ദ്രസര്ക്കാര് ഓഹരി പങ്കാളിത്തം വഹിക്കണമെന്ന നിലപാടില് നിന്ന് സംസ്ഥാന സര്ക്കാര് മാറിയിട്ടില്ല. ഈ തര്ക്കം പരിഹരിച്ചാല് കൊച്ചി മെട്രോ യാഥാര്ഥ്യമാവാനുള്ള വഴി തെളിയും.

കേന്ദ്രസര്ക്കാര് നിര്ദേശിച്ചതുപോലെ പൊതു സ്വകാര്യ പങ്കാളിത്തത്തില് കൊച്ചിമെട്രോ നടപ്പാക്കിയാല് ഇനിയും കാലതാമസം എടുക്കുമെന്ന് കൂടിക്കാഴ്ചയ്ക്കുശേഷം ഇ. ശ്രീധരന് പറഞ്ഞു. ചുരുങ്ങിയത് പതിനെട്ടു മാസമെങ്കിലും കൂടുതലായി വേണ്ടിവരും. പുതിയ കണ്സള്ട്ടന്റിനെ നിശ്ചയിക്കുക, രൂപകല്പ്പന നിര്വഹിക്കുക എന്നിങ്ങനെയുള്ള കാര്യങ്ങള്ക്ക് ഏറെ സമയമെടുക്കും. ബാംഗ്ലൂരിലും ചെന്നൈയിലുമുള്ളതു പോലെ പൊതുമേഖലാടിസ്ഥാനത്തില് കൊച്ചി മെട്രോയും നടപ്പാക്കുന്നതാണ് പ്രായോഗികമെന്നും ശ്രീധരന് പറഞ്ഞു.

കൊച്ചി മെട്രോ നടപ്പാക്കാനുള്ള സാധ്യതകളെക്കുറിച്ച് ശ്രീധരനുമായി വിശദമായി ചര്ച്ച നടത്തിയതായി മന്ത്രി പറഞ്ഞു. ഇക്കാര്യത്തില് കേന്ദ്ര ആസൂത്രണ കമ്മീഷന് ഉപാധ്യക്ഷന് മൊണ്ടേക് സിങ് അലുവാലിയയെയും കഴിഞ്ഞ ദിവസം കണ്ടിരുന്നു. കൊച്ചിയുടെ വികസനത്തിന് ഏറെ സംഭാവന നല്കാന് കഴിയുന്ന പദ്ധതിയാണ് മെട്രോ റെയില്. കഴിഞ്ഞ ഇടതുസര്ക്കാറും പദ്ധതി നടപ്പാക്കുന്ന കാര്യത്തില് ഏറെ മുന്നോട്ടു പോയി. മെട്രോ നടപ്പാക്കണമെന്ന കാര്യത്തില് യാതൊരു തര്ക്കവുമില്ല. എങ്ങനെ നടപ്പാക്കാമെന്നതിനെക്കുറിച്ചായിരുന്നു ശ്രീധരനുമായുള്ള ചര്ച്ച. ഡല്ഹി മെട്രോ മാതൃകയില് പദ്ധതി പൊതുമേഖലയില് നടപ്പാക്കണമെന്നാണ് അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെ അഭിപ്രായം. കൊച്ചി മെട്രോയില് ശ്രീധരന്റെ മാര്ഗനിര്ദേശം ഏറെ പ്രധാനപ്പെട്ടതാണ്. പദ്ധതി എത്രയും പെട്ടെന്നു യാഥാര്ഥ്യമാക്കാനുള്ള സാധ്യതകള് ചര്ച്ച ചെയ്തു. ഇക്കാര്യങ്ങളെല്ലാം മുഖ്യമന്ത്രി ഉമ്മന്ചാണ്ടിയെ അറിയിക്കുമെന്നും കെ.വി. തോമസ് പറഞ്ഞു.

കേന്ദ്ര, സംസ്ഥാന സര്ക്കാര് പങ്കാളിത്തത്തോടെ പദ്ധതി നടപ്പാക്കണമെന്ന നേരത്തേയുള്ള നിലപാട് ചര്ച്ചയില് ശ്രീധരന് ആവര്ത്തിച്ചു. കേന്ദ്ര-സംസ്ഥാന സര്ക്കാറുകളുടെ ഓഹരിക്കു പുറമേ പദ്ധതിക്ക് പണം കണ്ടെത്താനുള്ള മാര്ഗങ്ങളും ചര്ച്ച ചെയ്തു. ഡല്ഹി മെട്രോയിലേതു പോലെ ജപ്പാന് അന്താരാഷ്ട്ര സഹകരണ ഏജന്സിയില്നിന്നുള്ള വായ്പ, ബാങ്കുകളുടെ കണ്സോര്ഷ്യം രൂപവത്കരിച്ച് പണം സമാഹരിക്കുക, ഇന്ത്യ ഇന്ഫ്രാസ്ട്രക്ച്ചര് ഫണ്ടില് നിന്ന് വായ്പയെടുക്കുക എന്നിങ്ങനെ മൂന്നു വഴികള് ചര്ച്ചയില് ഉരുത്തിരിഞ്ഞു. ഇതില് ഏറ്റവും പ്രായോഗികമായത് സംസ്ഥാന സര്ക്കാറിന് സ്വീകരിക്കാം. കൊച്ചി മെട്രോ പദ്ധതി നടപ്പാക്കാനായി കേന്ദ്രത്തില് രാഷ്ട്രീയ സമ്മര്ദം ശക്തമാക്കണമെന്നും ഇ. ശ്രീധരന് കൂടിക്കാഴ്ചയില് മന്ത്രി കെ.വി. തോമസിനോട് ആവശ്യപ്പെട്ടു.

ഡല്ഹി മെട്രോ മാതൃകയില് കൊച്ചി മെട്രോയും നടപ്പാക്കണമെന്നാണ് തുടക്കം മുതലേയുള്ള കേരള സര്ക്കാറിന്റെ ആവശ്യം. എന്നാല്, കേന്ദ്രസര്ക്കാറും ആസൂത്രണ കമ്മീഷനും ഇതിനു തടസ്സം നില്ക്കുകയായിരുന്നു. ഇതുവരെ പദ്ധതിക്ക് കേന്ദ്രംഅംഗീകാരം നല്കിയിട്ടില്ല. ഡല്ഹി മെട്രോയില് കേന്ദ്രവും സംസ്ഥാനവും 25 ശതമാനം വീതം ഓഹരിയും ശേഷിക്കുന്ന തുക ജപ്പാന് വായ്പയുമാണ്. കൊച്ചി മെട്രോയ്ക്ക് ഓഹരിക്കു പകരം ധനസഹായം നല്കാമെന്ന കേന്ദ്രനിര്ദേശം ഇതുവരെ സംസ്ഥാന സര്ക്കാര് അംഗീകരിച്ചിട്ടില്ല. സംസ്ഥാന സര്ക്കാറിന്റെ ആവശ്യവും കേന്ദ്രമന്ത്രിമാരുടെ നിരന്തര സമ്മര്ദവും പരിഗണിച്ച് മെട്രോ പൊതുമേഖലയില് നടപ്പാക്കുന്നതിനെ കേന്ദ്രംഅനുകൂലിച്ചിട്ടുണ്ടെങ്കിലും ഓഹരി നല്കാനാവില്ലെന്ന നിലപാടില് മാറ്റം വരുത്തിയിട്ടില്ല. ഓഹരിക്കു പകരം ധനസഹായം നല്കാമെന്ന കേന്ദ്രനിലപാടു തന്നെയാണ് കൊച്ചി മെട്രോയുടെ അംഗീകാരത്തിനുള്ള പ്രധാന തര്ക്കവും തടസ്സവും. പൊതു-സ്വകാര്യ പങ്കാളിത്തത്തില് നടപ്പാക്കുന്ന പദ്ധതികള്ക്കാണ് സാധാരണനിലയില് കേന്ദ്രസര്ക്കാര് ധനസഹായം നല്കാറുള്ളത്. എന്നാല് ഡല്ഹി മെട്രോയ്ക്ക് നല്കിയതു പോലെ കൂടുതല് പണം മറ്റു മെട്രോ പദ്ധതികള്ക്ക് നല്കാനാവില്ലെന്നാണ് കേന്ദ്ര ആസൂത്രണ കമ്മീഷന്റെയും നിലപാട്. അതുകൊണ്ടു തന്നെ കൊച്ചി മെട്രോയ്ക്കു വേണ്ടി വലിയ സാമ്പത്തികബാധ്യത വഹിക്കാന് കേന്ദ്രം തയ്യാറുമല്ല.

കൊച്ചി മെട്രോയുടെ ഭാഗമായി അടിസ്ഥാന സൗകര്യം വികസിപ്പിക്കാന് സംസ്ഥാന സര്ക്കാര് 148 കോടി രൂപ വകയിരുത്തിയിരുന്നു. ഇതില് 30 കോടി രൂപ ഇതിനകം കൈമാറിക്കഴിഞ്ഞു. ആസൂത്രണകമ്മീഷന് പഴയ സമീപനത്തില് മാറ്റം വരുത്തിയിട്ടുണ്ടെന്നാണ് കഴിഞ്ഞ ദിവസം അലുവാലിയയുമായി നടത്തിയ ചര്ച്ചയുടെ അനുഭവത്തില് മന്ത്രി തോമസിന്റെ അഭിപ്രായം. മുഖ്യമന്ത്രിയായി അധികാരമേറ്റശേഷം ഡല്ഹിയില് നടത്തിയ വാര്ത്താസമ്മേളനത്തില് മുഖ്യമന്ത്രി ഉമ്മന്ചാണ്ടി കൊച്ചി മെട്രോ പദ്ധതിക്ക് സര്ക്കാര് മുന്തിയ പരിഗണന നല്കുമെന്ന് അറിയിച്ചിരുന്നു. ചെന്നൈ, ബാംഗ്ലൂര് മെട്രോ മാതൃകയില് പദ്ധതി നടപ്പാക്കുമെന്നാണ് അദ്ദേഹം അറിയിച്ചത്. ഇതിന്റെ തുടര്ച്ചയെന്ന നിലയ്ക്കാണ് കെ.വി.തോമസും ഇ.ശ്രീധരനും തമ്മിലുള്ള കൂടിക്കാഴ്ച നടന്നത്.
Mathrubhumi (http://www.mathrubhumi.com/online/malayalam/news/story/953842/2011-05-25/kerala)

Skywalk at Vytilla junction proposed

Staff Reporter

KOCHI: A skywalk for pedestrians has been proposed at the busy Vytilla Junction.

The skywalk conceived in the most modern way will have facilities like a shopping mall and a hotel. A picturesque view of the sky is another added attraction.

District Collector P.I. Sheikh Pareed said that the Road Safety Committee chaired by the Chief Secretary P. Prabhakaran has given in-principle approval to this novel project. The project is the brainchild of Mr. Pareed who wanted to ease the difficulty experienced by pedestrians in crossing the road at the junction. The skywalk with a steel frame will be 10 metre wide and 50 metre long. It is expected to cost Rs. 3.5 crore.

http://www.hindu.com/2011/05/25/stories/2011052563310200.htm

New parking policy on the anvil
KOCHI: The burgeoning parking woes of commuters in the city might get a relief once the automobile parking policy under the Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) is implemented.

The Local Self Government Department (LSGD) has approved the policy and it has directed the local bodies in the State including the Kochi Corporation to initiate steps to implement the policy recommendations.

According to officials of the LSGD, the Kochi Corporation will become the single agency to coordinate and implement the vehicle parking policy in the city. The policy has suggested that the use of public land for parking of private vehicles should be done on the ‘pay and park' principle.

The corporation will identify and designate parking areas for taxis and autorickshaws. Such parking stands will not be located at road junctions and will be off the carriageway at a minimum distance of 75 metres. Location of the existing taxi, autorickshaw and lorry/van stands should be reviewed and re-designated with the consent of the Regional Transport Authority, if required.

The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/2011/05/25/stories/2011052564150300.htm)

Phase II Marina work starts next yr
The second phase work of the much-hyped Kochi International Marina project would begin next year, according to government officials.

Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) is waiting for additional grant from the Central Ministry to begin the work which would enhance the berthing capacity of the only marina in the country.

“An additional grant of Rs 5 crore is expected from the central ministry,” a senior official of the KTDC said.

“We have submitted a detailed report on the marina project to the authorities. We are planning to begin the work by next year.”

The operation at Kochi Marina was launched in April 2010. The project has boosted KTDC’s income in many ways, the official said.

“Marina was launched one year ago and it has benefited the tourism industry and us very well. Once the operation is streamlined the marina would bring in more income to the industry,” the official added.

The KTDC has spent Rs 8.21 crore, including a central assistance of Rs 4 crore, in the first phase of the project. At present, the marina can accommodate up to 34 yachts. In the second phase the berthing capacity would be increased to 50, the official said.

“From berthing alone we got around Rs 1 crore in the past year. We have outsourced marketing to a private agency. The business is profitable and we are expecting more income in the coming years,” said Jaibee Kollarmalil, manager of the KTDC-owned Bolgatty Palace Resort.
DC Kochi (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/kochi/marina-work-starts-next-yr-996)

CIAL charts a unique growth story
Nedumbassery: The Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), the country's first greenfield venture in the aviation sector, has crossed yet another milestone by entering its 13th year of operations on Wednesday.

Commissioned on May 25, 1999, as the first international airport outside the ambit of the government of India, it now stands at the fourth spot in the country in terms of international traffic.

The growth story of CIAL is unique - it achieved the break-even within four years into the operations and has been registering a Combined Average Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 20 per cent over the period. In the fiscal ending March 2011, its annual turnover stood at Rs. 235 crore with the net profit touching Rs.100 crore.

Apart from developing infrastructure through expansion on a modular basis, the airport company now aims at augmenting its non-aviation revenue by developing the city side infrastructure to set up an aerotropolis.

During the course, CIAL has also been credited with a number of ‘innovative firsts' associated with an aviation service provider by establishing an aviation management institute, airport-based SEZ, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) and an all–weather golf course.

In addition, it has initiated a long-term growth plan which envisages expanding its non-aeronautical revenue sources while increasing the income from aviation. To this effect, the company director board has also given the approval for making a total investment of Rs.118 crore.

One of the projects approved under the scheme is an industrial park on 250 acres that will host companies manufacturing aircraft parts, avionic equipment, and ground handling equipment, fire safety tools and related infrastructure development.

In addition, it has also drawn up a plan to develop on its property a variety of service sector ventures including a luxury and a budget hotel, a multi-specialty hospital, a theatre complex and a shopping mall. CIAL has already completed the works on its aerospace museum and the airframe and components MRO and is scheduled to operationalise the project in this financial year.
The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/2011/05/26/stories/2011052656910700.htm)

SP-AP Road, new survey soon
* New survey for Kalamassery - CIAL part of the SP-AP road will be completed soon: PWD Minister
* The road works will be completed during the current term.
Manorama (http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/localContentView.do?tabId=16&contentId=9401575&district=Cochin&programId=1079897624&BV_ID=@@@)

Kochi: The motor vehicle department is planning to control the overspeeding vehicles in the city by attaching GPRS-enabled devices on the vehicles. The move comes in the wake of the unsuccessful implementation of the lane traffic system.

The department will file a request to the chief minister to give the control of the new system to the police.

The speed-governor, prescribed by the department, was removed by the vehicle owners. The new system can track the speed, location and route of the vehicles from the office with the help of computers.

In the first phase the system will be attached to vehicles like sand and tipper lorries.

If the attempt ends in success, it will be implemented in other heavy vehicles as well.
Courtesy_Malayalamanorama

http://www.hindu.com/2011/05/25/stories/2011052563310200.htm
This is an important one which is to be implemented soon.:)

del

del

Guys I need one help.

Does we have any info over NH-49 widening and NH-49 Bypass alignment?

^^Yes we do. It is in the bottom most section of the deep freezer. Expect it to thaw in just a few decades.

AFAIK, there is no project for a general widening. There is a long frozen project of Thripunithura bypass, and long forgotten projects of bypassing Kolenchery, Muvattupuzha and Kothamangalam. Thripunithura bypass is the only project for which some action had been taken.

Land is notified from Mattakuzhy to Thiruvankulam. Many alignments were proposed for the Thiruvankulam-Maradu section, each of which faced opposition. Nothing is happening on any fronts right now, and Thripunithura is a MESS every day.

NH49 is a narrow state highway called Kothamangalam-Thrippunithura road "Glorifiedly" called . people of northern travancore will prefer a straight highway from palarivattom-kakkanad to Muvattupuzha and Kothamangalam rather than this. mho.

^^Oh, come on, keralite! It gives ample opportunity to enjoy the 'best in class' handling of my car :tongue2:

The eastward corridor from kakkanad had been in proposal for the past decade, but nothing had happened. PJ Joseph wanted it to Muvattupuzha. Kurulaan wanted it to Kothamangalam. Mons didn't want it. The only good thing happened because of it is the hike in land price beyond Pattimattom.

I had proposed a radial/ring road network for the eastern side of the metro, which call for a radial from Pallikkara to Kothamangalam and another from Infopark to Muvattupuzha. Out of these, the road to Kothamangalam is more important, because there is a triangle of area between Perumbavoor, Muvattupuzha and Kothamangalam that need development.

Kochi aims to be slum-free (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/kochi/kochi-aims-be-slum-free-777)

The ‘National Slum Free City Campaign’ under the Rajiv Awaz Yojana (RAY) will be implemented in Kochi soon.

The Kochi Corporation special council meet on Friday discussed the plan of action to be taken for launching the project exclusively for the urban slum dwellers in the city. The President announced the scheme earlier in 2009.

Over 24,000 families from about 250 slums in the city will benefit from the project, which promotes slum-free urban development in the Corporation’s jurisdiction.

As per the report given by the civic authorities to the Centre there were 243 slums with 24,775 families in all 74 wards in Kochi. Based on this report a verification study was conducted by the Rajagiri College that could found out only 216 slums with 16602 families.

Stating the current list as temporary Mayor Tony Chammany said that a final list would be made after getting the ward wise slum count by the respective councillors.

Following, the councillors were asked to map the slums in their respective wards and fix its boundaries before June 15. According to the project if more than ten families dwell in 25 cents of land, it would be considered as a slum.

The scheme also provides basic amenities such as water, sewerage, drainage, electricity, roads and waste management. The project is totally different from other central housing schemes implemented by the Centre earlier. The scheme would benefit economically backward families with monthly income below Rs 5000.

The scheme also assures basic needs of the society such as house renovation, potable water, and hospitals.

The project would also provide temporary settlements for migrant labourers including facilities for night stays.

As part of its efforts to vitalise the public transport system, the district administration has decided to take measures to start KSRTC night services.
The authorities are planning to ensure that KSRTC buses conduct services to various parts of the city and suburbs at onehour intervals after 8 pm. As only a few buses are operating services in the city after 8 pm, the passengers are facing hardships. So, priority is being given to start night services at frequent intervals, District Collector P I Sheik Pareeth said. "Starting buses from the islands connected to Ernakulam is next in the priority list," the Collector said. The residents of the islands are suffering owing to lack of bus services. There are also plans to issue more permits to private buses in the district. More KSRTC bus services will also be started in the district. State government officials said they have completed procedures to start 100 more ThiruKochi buses in Kochi. Eight more lowfloor A/C buses will start services from Kochi soon. The KSRTC started two ThiruKochi and A/C lowfloor buses each through the Vallarpadom International Container Transshipment Terminal on Wednesday. The authorities said they would start more services on the route soon. The programmes highlighting the need to switch over to public transport system will also be organised.

Source : Express Buzz

Yes. Unavailability of buses in late evening was one of the major complaints about the city. The proposal is the right step.

@home - the Mega home store, now in Kochi




http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/6688/21638.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/703/21638.jpg/)

This is Kerala's 1st @home Store & the 17th store Nationally.


@home, the Mega home store by Nilkamal Ltd., was launched today in Kochi. This is Kerala's 1st @home Store & the 17th store Nationally. Present on the occasion were Mr. Manish Parekh, Executive Director, Nilkamal Ltd. & Mr. Thomas Johan, Sr. GM Retail Operations, @home. Being positioned as a 'home stylist', @home will facilitate the consumers in Kochi with benefits such as wide product range, quality products, home décor ideas, easy finance options, warranty and after sales service.

Kochi is said to be one of the fast-growing residential markets in Kerala. NRI investments has caused sudden spurt in residential demand in Kochi City. Besides, Apartment units have the highest demand owing to affordable prices and availability. Recent reports state that the city of Kochi is not far behind the Indian metros such as Delhi and Mumbai when it comes to the real estate boom.

@home Kochi is set up on a floor area of 20,500 sq ft with an investment of rupees around 3 crores. The Company is planning to set up three new stores in next six months, and will be looking for more opportunities to expand. Currently, 17 @home stores are spread across 13 cities in India covering a total retail space of 2.68 lakh sq ft carpet area.

At the launch, Mr. Manish Parekh, Executive Director, Nilkamal Ltd. said, "We at @home would like to be called "home stylists" & not just a home décor & furniture store. We believe in helping consumers buy. With Nilkamal Ltd., we have been connected with the market in Kerala for many years now. With the trust & reliability of Nilkamal, @home will also serve the brand values to our consumers & give them a plethora of products & services to choose from. The entire experience from the time they enter the store is unique & the experience will make consumers feel at home. We feel that the people of Kerala have a fine taste for home decor and by opening up @home here we are providing them with products they will love to buy."

With regards to Kochi and the Southern market, Mr. Thomas Johan & Sr. GM Retail Operations, @home further added, "We have created a leadership position in South India with stores in Coimbatore, Chennai, Bangalore & Hyderabad and are focusing to set firm steps in the South market in a big way. We plan to open 2 more stores in South within the next few months. We are sure that the Kochi store will be one of our best performing stores in the South".

At @home, consumers can avail upto-24 months interest-free Easy Monthly Installment (EMI). Free Interior planning service can be availed through @home's 3D Imaging Software wherein one can see how the furniture will look in the given home dimensions. Customers can also seek a free consultation with their in-house interior designing & style experts. @home has laid heavy emphasis on visual merchandising since it forms a critical element of retailing. Every @home store has products interestingly placed in coordinated Room settings giving customer's comfort and convenience offering customers a superior shopping experience.

@home furniture range includes living room, bed-room & dining room & wide range of Knick-Knack utility furniture. The accessories range includes candles, clocks, paintings, picture frames, ornamental flowers, pots & vases, cutlery & wine glasses, kitchen ware, lamps, pillows, upholstery, curtains and all that conceivable for adding style and sophistication simultaneously.

Amidst economic upturn, @home has posted a turnover of Rs. 190 crore for FY 2010-11, which is a 40% growth in turnover over FY 2009-10. The retail division hopes to achieve a 20-25% growth of same store sales for the FY 2011-12. @home has 17 Stores across India at Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Ghaziabad, Hyderabad, Kochi, Mumbai, Pune, Surat, Thane & Vadodara.

Source (http://www.indiaprwire.com/pressrelease/other/2011060388343.htm)

@home - the Mega home store, now in Kochi


Is this located opp. to Lulu??

Is this located opp. to Lulu??

:okay: you are right buddie..

Is this located opp. to Lulu??

yes

Plan to set-up a Modern Mini-Shipyard in Kochi :cheers:
* CPT has started talks to setup a modern Mini-Shipyard with Private investment.
* Initially, it is planned to built a small-ship repairing/maintenance unit which will be developed to shipyard later on.
* The Dry-dock and Workshop at Cochin port is plotted to modernize with private capital.
* There were plans to setup Modern repairing yard at Puthuvypin earlier, which did not materialize.
* CPT sees big opportunity for ship repairing once VICTT attains full stage growth.
* Tender will be floated for the new Mini-shipyard to work on a BOT basis for a period of 30 years.
Mathrubhumi (http://www.mathrubhumi.com/business/news_articles/story-190809.html)

From the mouth of PWD Minister
* SP-AP road 2nd phase will be completed (2 lane) in this term.
* Thripunithura Bypass has been completed, a 2nd bypass under consideration
* Vytilla-Thripunithura road will be developed in 30meters
* Kakkanad - Kothamangalam 4lane highway be developed with priority.

5 Years is more than enough for all these, wish he keeps his word :nuts:
Manorama (http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/localContentView.do?tabId=16&contentId=9435835&district=Cochin&programId=1079897624&BV_ID=@@@)

4G WiMAX service in Kochi by BSNL!
http://kochigallan.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/wimax_kochi.gif
Using the outdated 3G service? Get the new BSNL 4G WiMAX service launched in Kochi & go latest.
Yes, the news is true. Kochi has been waiting to hear this news since 2 years. BSNL has launched its latest 4G high-speed (512 Kbps – 2 Mbps) internet service in the 79 key areas of Kochi. As the connection doesn’t require any cables or lines or any other physical connection, the biggest advantage of this service, apart from the high speed offered, is that it wouldn’t get disrupted whenever there is a road work happening near your place.
This Gallan got to know that the equipment cost is just Rs 40. And the connection will be given within a day. There is a promotional FREE trial offer as well. BSNL !!!
Link for tariff of WiMAX service (http://bsnl.co.in/service/wimax/wimax_homepage.htm)
Source: Kochigallan ;)

@home – THE MEGA HOME STORE (http://www.at-home.co.in/)
Inaugural Offer!!!
10% FLAT discount on the furnitures. 10% discount on accessories and soft furnishing for a purchase of above 5,000 INR. Offer valid till 26th June 2011.

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/6720/homekochi.jpg
Courtesy: Kochigallan ;)

Kochi's Hopes
Better Kochi response group (http://betterkochi.org/) has submitted a detailed report on the various projects including the Flyovers that was proposed to reduce the traffic congestion and action plans needed to be executed to the Chef Minister Oommen Chandi on his demand.

The Better Kochi Response Group has strongly recommended the need for a separate ministry or portfolio to be set up for the coordination of projects in Kochi.The report says that the works for the proposed flyovers at Kundannoor,Vytila,Palarivattom and Edapally should be taken up immediately. And as a second phase of the project a fly over over south over bridge to cross MG road and another flyover Mg road to Banergi road facilitating a smooth right turn is also in consideration.
Courtesy: Cochinsquare :)

India's first Salt Therapy center- Salt Cave has opened in Kochi.

This is the first Halotherapy center, meant for treating patients suffering from various respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis, sinusitis, asthma, hay-fever, pneumonia, wheezing, cold or cough with a drug-free solution (dry-saline aerosol HaloTherapy) which is free from the side-effects.

http://saltcavekochi.com/pksimg/Gallery1.jpg

dJRLFb7GIZw

The facility is opened in Ravipuram, within Temple parking area.

:banana::banana::banana:

@mohamad:there is one such with similar name working in muvattupuzha from few months. :o may be, they have relocated.

* Plans to add 110,000 bpd at Kochi, 60,000 bpd at Bina

* Expansion to cost $4 bln

* No need for India to import diesel if refineries run smoothly

KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 (Reuters) - India's Bharat Petroleum Corp plans to invest $4 billion to add 170,000 barrels per day (bpd) of refining capacity at its Kochi and Bina plants over the next three to four years, Chief Executive R.K. Singh told reporters on Sunday.

India's fuel demand is growing quickly with the expanding economy, and subsidised prices mean have sheltered consumers from the rise in international oil prices to over $100 a barrel this year.

Diesel demand would grow by around 8-10 percent this year, but the country should avoid the need to import the fuel if all refineries run without glitches, the head of India's third-largest refining company said.

"If all the refineries are running, there is no turnaround or no technical hitch in the operation of the refineries, I don't think imports are necessary," Singh said.

Subsidised diesel prices have made the fuel cheaper than fuel oil. That is encouraging power generators to switch to diesel from fuel oil and boosting diesel demand, at a time when supplies in Asia are already expected to be strained as China deals with power shortages.

EXPANSION

BPCL plans to expand the Kochi refinery in the southern Indian state of Kerala to 300,000 bpd from 190,000 bpd, Singh said.

The Kochi expansion is scheduled to come on line in March 2015, the plant's executive director E. Nandakumar said on Sunday.

The company plans to boost capacity at the Bina refinery in central India to 180,000 bpd from 120,000 bpd, Singh said.

BPCL is in the midst of starting up the new Bina plant, and expects the refinery to reach capacity of 120,000 bpd in the next three months, Singh said.

At Kochi, the company was also planning a fluid catalytic cracking unit, he added.

"We're thinking of putting a petrochemical complex there," he said. "It will be petrochemical products based on propylene. So we'll have to add additional FCC there which will give us propylene."

The expansion will cost BPCL around 180 billion rupees ($4 billion), he said.

Profit margins for refining crude were good, he said, pegging the spread between crude and the principal fuels produced through refining at $18-$20 a barrel.

BPCL's is India's third-largest refiner by capacity after Indian Oil Corp and Reliance Industries, he said.

BPCL also operates a 240,000-bpd refinery in Mumbai and has a majority stake in a 60,000 bpd refinery in northeast India.

http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/06/05/india-bpcl-expansion-idUSL3E7H50C120110605

Carborundum Universal Ltd (CUMI), part of the Chennai-based Murugappa group, is in the process of finalising three joint ventures (JVs) for its proposed renewable energy material manufacturing plants. The company would announce two of the three joint ventures in a couple of months, said a senior executive of the company.

"These would be mid-size joint ventures providing inputs to the renewable energy industry. We are in the advanced stages of negotiation with some companies to finalise two joint ventures. The third JV would take some more time," said K Srinivasan, managing director, CUMI.


The company is currently into manufacturing abrasives, ceramics and super refractories, and has recently sought stakeholders' approval for its entry into the renewable energy material manufacturing industry.

The company's main focus in the segment would be to serve manufacturing inputs to solar energy industry. It is looking at supply of material parts for renewable energy generators including silicon wafers and materials for processing silicon wafers. It already supplies micro silicon carbide powder used in silicon wafers to global customers. However, the company would stay away from manufacturing of solar panels or power, he added.

The JVs would be established in its own 25-acre central government-approved renewable energy SEZ (special economic zone) in Kochi, Kerala. The investment in the JVs would be announced once the partnership deals are made public. On a consolidated basis, CUMI announced a capex of Rs 150 crore for the current fiscal. This does not include the investment in JVs. Over and above, we expect the investment in this segment also to be significant, said Srinivasan.

While the partner is expected to bring in its brand and intellectual property (IP), CUMI has its strength in access to certain raw materials and process knowledge and capability. Further, the positioning in SEZ would give it an advantage in Indian market along with other Asian countries, he added.

Plans are to engage in business related to silicon and non-silicon based solar power, mono and multi crystalline and thin film panels, photovoltaic wafers, cells, modules, systems, installations and concentrator type solar cells, modules and systems, among others, for industrial, domestic, agricultural, defense and any other applications.

Kochi is likely to host 3rd campus of prestigious Indian Institute of Foreign Trade-IIFT (New Delhi). K.T Chacko, the director of IIFT hinted this in press meet



The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), New Delhi, has been made the nodal agency for setting up India-Africa Institute of Foreign Trade (IAIFT) in Uganda. IIFT will help establish the B-school in Kampala under the Indo-Africa Summit Declaration at a cost of around Rs 70 crore.

IIFT is also planning its third campus in India. The institute established its second campus in Kolkata in the 11th plan period. "We are finalizing our plans for the third campus, which will be in south India, probably in Cochin," said Chacko.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/IIFT-to-set-up-institute-in-Uganda/articleshow/8739556.cms

* Plans to add 110,000 bpd at Kochi, 60,000 bpd at Bina

At Kochi, the company was also planning a fluid catalytic cracking unit, he added.

"We're thinking of putting a petrochemical complex there," he said. "It will be petrochemical products based on propylene. So we'll have to add additional FCC there which will give us propylene."

The expansion will cost BPCL around 180 billion rupees ($4 billion), he said.


The earlier news reported that Kochi project (Petrochem Complex + Capacity Expansion) itself is a Rs.15k Cr project. That would be the biggest ever project to happen in our state.

Working for Kochi Port Development - Paul Antony (CPT Chairman)
* 53 acres has been kept apart for 12000MW power plant @ puthuvypin
* Rs 200Cr Multi-User liquid terminal @ Puthuvypin port SEZ with private participation - Tender in progress.
* INKEL, MFAR, VKL Holdings JV Logistics centre @ Vallarpadam
* New outer Harbour in 1200 acres with an investment of Rs. 15K Crores!! :nuts:
* Ship repairing facility, which will be developed to building yard later @ Willingdon

Read more here (http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?contentId=9449980&programId=1073753761&channelId=-1073751706&BV_ID=@@@&tabId=11)

One of India's largest NBFC, Manappuram Finance Group is going to start its diversification in Healthcare in a big way, with Kochi as its center. The MACare, will the new diversified company operating a range of super dignosis centers and dental-cosmetic centers

The following are excerpts from interview with Manappuram Chairman V.P Nandakumar



The healthcare division has already been branded as MACare, and our flagship diagnostic centre is coming up at Kaloor, Kochi. Following our larger-than-life philosophy in all ventures, this 20,000 sq ft facility will be Kerala’s largest and most modern diagnostic facility with 164-slice CT, 3-Tesla MRI, and digital X-rays. This single centre is being set up on an investment of Rs. 40 crore. Our second facility is coming up at Vyttila, Kochi, and soon to follow is our dental clinics.

http://www.seasonalmagazine.com/2011/04/manappuram-what-results-reveal-and-new.html

:applause:

- Meeting recommends Kochi metro to be in Public sector


തിരുവനന്തപുരം: കൊച്ചി മെട്രോ റെയില്* പദ്ധതി കേന്ദ്ര-സംസ്*ഥാന സര്*ക്കാര്* പങ്കാളിത്തത്തോടെ നടപ്പാക്കുന്നത്* പരിഗണിക്കാന്* മുഖ്യമന്ത്രി ഉമ്മന്* ചാണ്ടി വിളിച്ചു ചേര്*ത്ത യോഗത്തില്* തീരുമാനം. പദ്ധതിക്ക്* ചെന്നൈ, ബംഗലൂരു മാതൃകയായിരിക്കും കൂടുതല്* അഭികാമ്യമെന്ന്* യോഗത്തില്* തീരുമാനമായി. ഇത്തരമൊരു സ്*കീം സംസ്*ഥാനത്തിന്* അനുവദിക്കണമെന്ന്* സര്*ക്കാര്* കേന്ദ്രസര്*ക്കാരിനോട്* അഭ്യര്*ഥിക്കും. വൈറ്റില-തൃപ്പൂണിത്തുറ റോഡ്* വീതി കൂട്ടും. പുല്ലേപ്പടി റോഡ്* കോര്*പറേഷന്* ഏറ്റെടുക്കാനും യോഗത്തില്* തീരുമാനമായി.

ഡല്*ഹി മെട്രോ കോര്*പറേഷന്* ചെയര്*മാന്* ഇ.ശ്രീധരന്*, വിവിധ വകുപ്പുമന്ത്രിമാര്*, എറണാകുളം ജില്ലയിലെ ജനപ്രതിനിധികള്*, ഉദ്യോഗസ്*ഥര്* എന്നിവര്* യോഗത്തില്* പങ്കെടുത്തു.

http://mangalam.com/index.php?page=detail&nid=432957&lang=malayalam

Hope our politicians will convert this probablity into a reality.

Kochi is likely to host 3rd campus of prestigious Indian Institute of Foreign Trade-IIFT (New Delhi). K.T Chacko, the director of IIFT hinted this in press meet

:applause:

- Meeting recommends Kochi metro to be in Public sector


തിരുവനന്തപുരം: കൊച്ചി മെട്രോ റെയില്* പദ്ധതി കേന്ദ്ര-സംസ്*ഥാന സര്*ക്കാര്* പങ്കാളിത്തത്തോടെ നടപ്പാക്കുന്നത്* പരിഗണിക്കാന്* മുഖ്യമന്ത്രി ഉമ്മന്* ചാണ്ടി വിളിച്ചു ചേര്*ത്ത യോഗത്തില്* തീരുമാനം. പദ്ധതിക്ക്* ചെന്നൈ, ബംഗലൂരു മാതൃകയായിരിക്കും കൂടുതല്* അഭികാമ്യമെന്ന്* യോഗത്തില്* തീരുമാനമായി. ഇത്തരമൊരു സ്*കീം സംസ്*ഥാനത്തിന്* അനുവദിക്കണമെന്ന്* സര്*ക്കാര്* കേന്ദ്രസര്*ക്കാരിനോട്* അഭ്യര്*ഥിക്കും. വൈറ്റില-തൃപ്പൂണിത്തുറ റോഡ്* വീതി കൂട്ടും. പുല്ലേപ്പടി റോഡ്* കോര്*പറേഷന്* ഏറ്റെടുക്കാനും യോഗത്തില്* തീരുമാനമായി.

ഡല്*ഹി മെട്രോ കോര്*പറേഷന്* ചെയര്*മാന്* ഇ.ശ്രീധരന്*, വിവിധ വകുപ്പുമന്ത്രിമാര്*, എറണാകുളം ജില്ലയിലെ ജനപ്രതിനിധികള്*, ഉദ്യോഗസ്*ഥര്* എന്നിവര്* യോഗത്തില്* പങ്കെടുത്തു.

http://mangalam.com/index.php?page=detail&nid=432957&lang=malayalam
^^^^^^^^

I am pretty sure, that its time up to put a RIP tag on this project..... Even if it was Private sector or PPP sector too, this project won't take off easily and now with public sector, its out of question at all.... Is Central Govt so stupid to invest 2500 crore for a project, bypassing all other cities in eligible list?

Its time for Govt to look into its east and see how Amma is thinking.... Monorail is the only possible mass transport option available for highly densely populated state like Kerala and that too in a city like Kochi, that has the highest density within Kerala. Its never ever possible to go for mega land acquisitions and this project will soon find itself in various lobbies trap.

Already 8 years lost with this foolish idea and now our govt is again set to lose another period. Lets see when actually we can put up this tag!!!!

^^ Think positive ...there is no alternative for metro... it has to come to meet the future demands, take it from me, Govt will slowly restrict private vehicles entry into CBD. And introduce more public transport facility. That's why A/c buses and also new bus stations are coming up at Vyttila, Alwaye / Kalamassery, Highcourt and Thevara. It is pretty difficult to widen the roads in the city. if you cannot do it now, how are you gonna manage traffic situation after 5 years, 10...15...25?.... it will be a total chaos.:bash:

^^ Think positive ...there is no alternative for metro... it has to come to meet the future demands, take it from me, Govt will slowly restrict private vehicles entry into CBD. And introduce more public transport facility. That's why A/c buses and also new bus stations are coming up at Vyttila, Alwaye / Kalamassery, Highcourt and Thevara. It is pretty difficult to widen the roads in the city. if you cannot do it now, how are you gonna manage traffic situation after 5 years, 10...15...25?.... it will be a total chaos.:bash:

I am not in opinion that no widening projects should be done. It must be done and highly nessecary. But Metro seems to be too unrealistic in given set of conditions that we have today. That doesn't mean its not required at all. But its unrealistic in its current alignment.

1. Rs 5000 crore is too high level of investment, which will surely reflect in ridership fares, which may not be realistic to Kochi's income levels

2. Secondly Central Government is not meant for Kerala alone. There are atleast a dozen of cities above Kochi, that are eligible. For example, how can Kochi demand 2500 crore, when cities like Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Kanpur remains with none. We talk about sitution after 10 years, but these cities has a traffic chaos NOW, what we fear 10 years later. So naturally Central Govt has its address it first

3. There is no regional party or political powerness like DMK in Central Govt to get projects at gun-point.

4. There is no point in wasting current time thinking about project after 20 years. Rather its time to implement projects, that can have returns atleast within 5 years.

Perhaps, our government can plan a metro line connecting Aroor-Paravur through National Highway and Tripunithara-Kizhakambalam sectors, considering thrust in growth in these potential future areas, where land is more easy available.

The current alignment (Aluva-Mg Road-Petta) is a major business lifeline area of Kochi and any acquisition will be surely blocked by business lobby in all possible means. No political will power can stand above the powerful business lobby. Even VS couldn't touch the powerful MG Road lobby, how can we expect this to happen at anypoint of time?

The metro is meant to develop the city to new direction, not to congest existing areas. If the line pass thro' Aluva-Mg Road, which is already choked with traffic, metro line adds up more, as it has an economic booster capacity, by bringing in more investments within its vicinity.

Rather Aroor-Paravur National Highway stretch is very ideal, as it can make that area, similar to Anna Salai or Sheikh Zayed Road of Chennai and Dubai respectively. The traffic at MG Road is primarily due to level of business investments made within two Overbridges and Arabian sea. Rather its time up to open the city beyond the overbridges and direct the city to grow in east.

If the traffic within MG Road-Aluva stretch has to be addressed, the best is Monorail, as it costs 1/10th of metro line and less land to be acquired. Of-course it carries less people... But our intention is not to crowd MG Road with more people, rather the thrust is to develop 3 major stretchs

1. Aroor-Paravur
2. Thripunithara-Aluva stretch (Including Kakkanad-Kalamaserry)
3. Thripunithara-Kizhambalam stretch

So the government can plan Metro/MRTS in these stretches leaving highly densely populated MG Road, Aluva to light rail like Monorail.

Otherwise surely Kochi will be sure loser.

I am not in opinion that no widening projects should be done. It must be done and highly nessecary. But Metro seems to be too unrealistic in given set of conditions that we have today. That doesn't mean its not required at all. But its unrealistic in its current alignment.

Those issues had discussed a hundred times before. the alignment had finalized after the feasibility study.

1. Rs 5000 crore is too high level of investment, which will surely reflect in ridership fares, which may not be realistic to Kochi's income levels


If it is not feasible, they will never think twice to say NO.

2. Secondly Central Government is not meant for Kerala alone. There are atleast a dozen of cities above Kochi, that are eligible. For example, how can Kochi demand 2500 crore, when cities like Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Kanpur remains with none. We talk about sitution after 10 years, but these cities has a traffic chaos NOW, what we fear 10 years later. So naturally Central Govt has its address it first

Off course, central government meant for every one, so Kochi can ask for its share also. Think about rail budgets, how ministers brought huge investments to their constituencies. How many of such projects you can justify?. you will remember Ramvilas paswan is a classic example, mamata another one.

3. There is no regional party or political powerness like DMK in Central Govt to get projects at gun-point.

well that's a different issue. no need for such black mailing.

4. There is no point in wasting current time thinking about project after 20 years. Rather its time to implement projects, that can have returns atleast within 5 years.

development should be sustainable.

Perhaps, our government can plan a metro line connecting Aroor-Paravur through National Highway and Tripunithara-Kizhakambalam sectors, considering thrust in growth in these potential future areas, where land is more easy available.


off course, it will stretch out to those places in due course of time. But it has to start with the stretch where max no. of commuters are available. why every brand chose M.G. road to open their shop when there is hardly any residences? Financial viability is very important. why in dubai they have chosen Sheikh Zayed road for the pilot project?
Finally, Jaipur can think of a metro rail, can't we?

Those issues had discussed a hundred times before. the alignment had finalized after the feasibility study.

I am pretty sure, there is no doubt whether its feasible or not. Its feasible, but surely till this date, no ridership survey or fare stage survey ever calculated. Even preliminary studies are based on 2004 studies, but now cost escalated almost twice. Naturally there is an issue of feasibility again occurring.


If it is not feasible, they will never think twice to say NO.

Of-course, thats what Central Planning Commission has done- They have said an outright NO.... Politicians has every reason to project some plan or other to garner votes, which Planning commission donot require. Now its again time consuming to convince them. We can project just one Aluwalia alone as against. Planning commission comprises of some of Nation's experts and strategists. If they say No, its something serious.

Off course, central government meant for every one, so Kochi can ask for its share also. Think about rail budgets, how ministers brought huge investments to their constituencies. How many of such projects you can justify?. you will remember Ramvilas paswan is a classic example, mamata another one.

Kochi and Kerala has to ask. But there is no use in putting forward unreasonable demands and saying Central Govt not doing so. Its just like asking Railway Zone. Either we have political blackmail power like DMK or TDP or NCP OR some powerful political kingmaker like Mamata or Paswan to implement too high level projects.

Knowing all these, that we have no blackmail power and political kingmaker, we must make demands, which must be reasonable and able to grant.

well that's a different issue. no need for such black mailing.

All mega projects, that are not deserved for current cities, are implemented thro' political blackmailing or kingmakership. So the question of getting such mega projects without direct deserving, without having both, is sure to get rejected or prolonged.

development should be sustainable.

I agree Development should be sustainable and focused on faster returns and economic booster. There is no point to making paper projects and sit without implementation in next 10 or 12 years. Karunakaran had the same viewpoint, thats why he didn't agree to Central Government's directive to wait for another 10 or 15 years to get Cochin Airport granted under AAI funds. Rather he decided to go for PPP venture, at lower cost, so that benefits came within this 10/20 year wait period

I am sure, no politician in Kerala has the level of vision and implementation as that of Karunakaran. I am not sure about Chandy. But its more wise to implement some project (even in small scale) rather than waiting indefinite and keeping things in paper.....

off course, it will stretch out to those places in due course of time.

Even a 30 km one line takes a period of 10 to 15 years to start... So how long we expect other high growth potential areas?

But it has to start with the stretch where max no. of commuters are available. why every brand chose M.G. road to open their shop when there is hardly any residences? Financial viability is very important. why in dubai they have chosen Sheikh Zayed road for the pilot project?

In 2004 Sheikh Zayed Road was just 12 kms of Business center, mainly a few posh apartments and few hotels. Rather the business center was at Bur Dubai and Deira. When Dubai Metro was launched, the Sheikh Zayed road became a major business center of around 35 kms. Today the value of business in Sheikh Zayed road exceed atleast 500 times that of Bur Dubai or Deira.

The intention of Dubai Govt, was to reduce the traffic at Bur Dubai, by reducing business investments within Bur Dubai and growth of new zones.

We should see the same in Kochi's case. MG Road is already congested and no more growth is possible. Our attempt should be closing down MG Road for further business investment, rather growth of 40 KM Aroor-Paravur stretch as land is available and more large roads to accommodate feeder traffic.

The project is sure start atleast by another 10 years. This means, we still hold MG road as prime road, even after 25 or 30 years, whereas all other cities, have developed new stretches as prime Arterial road. Example Chennai's OCR etc.


Finally, Jaipur can think of a metro rail, can't we?

Yes, Jaipur is more populated than Kochi and visited by more tourists than Kerala as whole. Even in that case, I believe, Central Govt hasn't invested... So how can Kochi believes so?

Kochi Metro - Basic infra works to commence in a month
http://images.mathrubhumi.com/images/2011/Jun/06/00204_295557.jpg
* Rs 158.68Cr for infrastructure development prior to metro works.
* Vytilla - Thripunithura road to be developed into 30m.
* Developing Thammanam - Pullepady road with JnNURM funds.
* The land acquisition for that will be completed on war footing
* Prior to metro works, work on 5 areas will be completed on a time bound manner.
* Rebuilding North ROB into 4 lane
* KSRTC ROB construction.
* Salim Rajan / Mullasery Canal Roads development.
* Jos Jn. - South Jn. development.
* MG Road development from Madhava Pharmacy Jn till Thevara
* Banerjee Rd development from Town Station till Madhava Jn.
* Atlantis flyover to be built by Corporation, Govt.. will take up land acquisition.

Mathrubhumi (http://www.mathrubhumi.com/story.php?id=191488)
Manorama (http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?contentId=9456520&programId=1073753765&channelId=-1073751706&BV_ID=@@@&tabId=11)

Survey for Truck Terminal
The land acquisition process for Truck Terminal to be set up at Kalamassery to begin now.
The terminal will be built at an area of 35000 sq. ft in a total plot area of 25 acres.
The terminal is being built by RBDCK.
The facility will provide parking for 1000 trucks.
The terminal will boast of facilities such as maintenance shop, Transport agency offices, Service station, Workshop, Restrooms, Petrol pump, Police Aid Post, Fire station, restaurants, dormitory etc.
Number of job creations are expected once the project is commissioned.
Metrovartha (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=79150440)

My comments on Metro Thread http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=705520&page=100

1. Rs 5000 crore is too high level of investment, which will surely reflect in ridership fares, which may not be realistic to Kochi's income levels


FYI, it is not 5K, Rs.4427 Cr as per latest estimation. And the higher ridership cost is major concern, that's why the LDF govt discarded private investment and P-P-P model. because Govt still has the responsibility to provide infrastructure facilities. And India Govt can afford to invest around 800-900 Cr for its citizens in Kochi. Now Oommen Chandy and his team also realizes this fact and started looking east and take his pick from what Amma / Achan practice in Chennai. The investment pattern is like 20:20:60, where JBIC is funding 60% cost and state and Central Govt shares will 20% each, ie hardly less than Rs. 900 crores !

Read on... (http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/localContentView.do?tabId=16&contentId=9455675&district=Cochin&programId=1079897613&BV_ID=@@@)

And i don't support the Indian idea of Let the a population explodes to highest level, then we will start do some thing! if Population is the criteria then it is repeat episode what we see in Mumbai, Calcutta, Chennai....have you been to Calcutta? a must watch place ! Anyways we will not reach that level at least in next 50 years ie, Kerala model !!! sorry no offense meant to anyone.

FYI, it is not 5K, Rs.4427 Cr as per latest estimation. And the higher ridership cost is major concern, that's why the LDF govt discarded private investment and P-P-P model. because Govt still has the responsibility to provide infrastructure facilities. And India Govt can afford to invest around 800-900 Cr for its citizens in Kochi. Now Oommen Chandy and his team also realizes this fact and started looking east and take his pick from what Amma / Achan practice in Chennai. The investment pattern is like 20:20:60, where JBIC is funding 60% cost and state and Central Govt shares will 20% each, ie hardly less than Rs. 900 crores !

Read on... (http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/localContentView.do?tabId=16&contentId=9455675&district=Cochin&programId=1079897613&BV_ID=@@@)

And i don't support the Indian idea of Let the a population explodes to highest level, then we will start do some thing! if Population is the criteria then it is repeat episode what we see in Mumbai, Calcutta, Chennai....have you been to Calcutta? a must watch place ! Anyways we will not reach that level at least in next 50 years ie, Kerala model !!! sorry no offense meant to anyone.

As I said, perhaps the new model may be compromising enough to start, though I believe Central Govt's offer was around 300 crore max. Still chances are there. Of-course 900 crore is reasonable for Central to consider, unlike 2500 crore eariler......

But the issue, its not just funding alone, thats going to be roadblock. This roadblock will continue, even if Central approves it and company formed, as how can a democratically elected government become autocract when comes to Land acquisition?

If VS himself, who has no regards to business lobby, failed to acquire even a inch of land from MG Road, how can this government can do that? Where is space to construct metro stations in MG Road? The metro passes through Lulu Mall, where a station was planned eariler. Now where is space in that stretch?

In all possibilities, all business lobbies together will stall the project in some way or other, as the current alignment will end up messing Kochi's business area.

Even small traders based in North Overbridge successfully staged a coup against district administration's decision to full down it. How then the government can touch Seematti, Josco, Jayalakshmi, Summit Mall etc?

I agree to your last point. Population alone, cannot be considered as stand alone critiea. Every state is unique in their own way. One cannot apply UP Yardsticks in Goa or Bengal model in Kerala. Otherwise in Kerala, only Malappuram will qualify for a Metro as no other place in Kerala have a growth rate which Central Govt looks for?

There should be some sort of mass transport for a city like Kochi. But in that process, I believe, it should not make the city into a big mess.....

Cruise Shipping is one of the most dynamic and fastest growing components of the leisure industry across the world. With its vast and beautiful coastline and beaches, backwaters, hill stations, wildlife, plantations, Ayurvedic and health holidays and enchanting art forms, Kerala can also be a favoured destination for cruise tourists.

Sensing the market, European cruise liners have started working out itineraries to operate to Kerala. “We had been operating cruise liners to Mumbai and are keen to operate to Kerala next year as there is immense potential,” says Michael Springer, managing director of the Vienna-based Reisegesellschaft, which specialises in cruise shipping.

Kochi is in the cruise map and has great potential to attract cruise liners. If ships can stay overnight for two days, he says excursions can be undertaken by the tourists from Kochi for three to four-days and it will immensely benefit the tourism industry of the State. “Those from Europe are interested in knowing about tea, coffee and pepper. We do not know how it is planted and grown. Trips to the hill station of Munnar will be a big attraction,” he says.

Mr. Springer, who was here recently along with his wife, Milli, on a holiday, said: “It is really God's Own Country with the beautiful landscape, environment and well mannered people and has big potential for tourism. It is a little paradise and one has to be careful about the upkeep of this treasure.”

Ayurveda is getting popular in Austria and lot of firms cater to the needs. But, the people prefer to undertake the therapy in Kerala in one stretch in a relaxed atmosphere under trained personnel. “Ayurveda is the USP of the State and the stakeholders should take steps to retain it,” he adds. A 12-day Ayurveda therapy and visit to Kochi and the hill resort of Munnar will be the main agenda of the itinerary he has in mind in next February. There are cruise liners offering Ayurveda therapy and massage from the spas. But, Mr. Miller says they have found that those really interested in Ayurveda want to get the therapy in a traditional way in Kerala under trained practitioners.

River cruising is also getting popular across the world with the arrival of small ships. The backwaters of Kerala have the potential to operate small vessels that can carry 150 tourists. Stating that interest in being healthy is getting stronger across the world, Mr. Springer says health and security have emerged as the main focus of the upper class. Cruise market is going strong and has not been affected by the economic crisis. In the next 10 years, he says there will be a 10 per cent increase in cruise tourists.

Cruise is also getting younger. Seniors prefer longer cruises and it is families who undertake week-long cruises. The profile of the cruise ships is also changing with modern amenities and beds going up from 600 to between 2,000 and 3,000. Cabins with balconies are the trend now as it offers privacy and the comfort as in a home.

Innovations are also needed for attracting tourists for the cruise tours. Mr. Miller says they are looking forward to the River and Music cruise with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra aboard the MS A Rosa Luna on the Saone and Rhone rivers. “France's foremost conductor Bertrand de Billy is to lead the orchestra and the aim is to connect the people and culture by marrying the finest classical music with exciting cruise,” he added.

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/07/stories/2011060761710200.htm

Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, who has convened a high-level meeting on the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal project on Tuesday in the State capital, is likely to request Petronet LNG Limited (PLL), promoter of the project in Kochi, to raise the terminal capacity to 15 Million Metric Tonne per Annum (MMTPA).

The State Government is of the view that enhancing the Kochi terminal capacity will be an ideal solution to the widening gap in LNG supply and demand in the country and in the light of the projections for the future, sources said here.

They said that the State Government was also keen to see that a proposal, earlier made by PLL, to set up a 1,200 mw power plant with natural gas as the feedstock was realized to meet the State's burgeoning power demand.

It is estimated that by 2015 there will be a demand-supply gap of 25 MMTPA for LNG in the country. The current supplies come from the 10 MMTPA terminal at Dahej in Gujarat and the 2.5 MMTPA terminal at Surat. The Kochi terminal with a capacity of 5 MMTPA is to be ready for commissioning by August 2012.

The State was of the view that persuading PLL to expand the Kochi terminal capacity would be a more economic option than launching a Greenfield project to meet LNG demand in any part of the country.

Land being a key factor, the Government is also of the view that around 15 hectares of land may be set aside on Puthuvype Island to expand the capacity. Besides, PLL had been asking for the allotment of around 50 acres on Puthuvype Island for setting up the 1,200 mw LNG-based power plant.

There has been a dispute on the land that was initially earmarked for the PLL power project.

However, this being an inter-departmental problem it can be resolved easily considering that a power plant within the Special Economic Zone and close to the re-gasification terminal would offer substantial savings in the cost of power, sources said.

The Government is also expected to address issues that have delayed the work on the pipeline for the off-take of gas from Kochi.

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/07/stories/2011060763260300.htm

---------------------------

It seems Chandy is going superfast atleast in Kochi's development!!! Hope it won't crash land somewhere... Good going!! Sure hopes for the city:banana::banana::banana:

;From Businessline]
Kochi, June 6:

The Kerala Government is expected to request Petronet LNG Ltd to enhance the installed capacity of its LNG Terminal in Kochi to 15 MMTPA from the existing 5 MMTPA.

The Chief Minister, Mr Oommen Chandy, has convened a high-level meeting on Tuesday at Thiruvananthapuram to formulate the strategic vision to facilitate more investments to the State using the LNG terminal.

Intense lobbying
Highly placed sources in the Kochi Port said the State Government plans to make intense lobbying in the Central Government for increasing the installed capacity of the terminal in Kochi scheduled to be completed in August 2012.

Increasing the capacity will be much better than setting up a green-field project which will result in higher cost and time, the sources said. The expansion of Puthuvypeen site is easier than a Greenfield site which would take five years, because land acquisition and environment clearances like re-gassification plant, jetty other infrastructure, which would reduce overall project costs. A site like Puthuvypeen has only one metre tidal variation as against 5-6 metres in Dahej. Besides, Kochi is closer to the international sea route, the sources added.

According to industry estimate, LNG demand in the country by 2015 is projected to be 25 MMTPA, while supply from LNG terminals in Dahej, Surat and Kochi will be in the range of 17.5 MMTPA.

Besides, requesting for hiking the installed capacity, the meeting to be convened by the Chief Minister, will also formulate proactive measures for setting up a 1200 MW power plant using LNG as the feed stock in Kochi.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/logistics/article2082286.ece

It seems Chandy is going superfast atleast in Kochi's development!!! Hope it won't crash land somewhere... Good going!! Sure hopes for the city:banana::banana::banana:

I feel rocket fast!!! He is trying to cover everything what the previous govt. couldn't do in their term (no offence here, plz).

I feel rocket fast!!! He is trying to cover everything what the previous govt. couldn't do in their term (no offence here, plz).

I feel thats dangerous... Things has to fast and steady, but overspeeding thrills, but kills.... I hope Chandy will complete his term, so that Kochi gains something....:banana::banana::banana:

As I said, perhaps the new model may be compromising enough to start, though I believe Central Govt's offer was around 300 crore max. Still chances are there. Of-course 900 crore is reasonable for Central to consider, unlike 2500 crore eariler......


Any time Kerala govt asked for 50% central govt funding ? I dont think so. AFAIK Delhi metro got 20-25% central funding and chennai metro got around 20% central funding. Kerala govt was also asking 25% central govt funding. But Planning commission was not ready to give atleast 15% or 20%.

There is nothing new in this proposal. Now state govt has come down to 20% from 25%. I hope Mr KV Thomas might have got some assurance from PM and Planning Commission. Its pity that medias are writing news for the Congress Party and Ommen Chandy !!!! KV Thomas should have done this 1 or 2 years back.

understand that this is a political decision. So definity this time, it will get.


Any time Kerala govt asked for 50% central govt funding ? I dont think so. AFAIK Delhi metro got 20-25% central funding and chennai metro got around 20% central funding. Kerala govt was also asking 25% central govt funding. But Planning commission was not ready to give atlease 15%.

I feel thats dangerous... Things has to fast and steady, but overspeeding thrills, but kills.... I hope Chandy will complete his term, so that Kochi gains something....:banana::banana::banana:

He is trying to build good infra, so that "over speeding" in Kerala levels doesnt KILL :lol:

understand that this is a political decision. So definity this time, it will get.

So it is confirmed that Mr KV Thomas like leaders from kerala & Congress was blocking the Kochi Metro approval for the last 5 years !!! Atleast people should understand that.

I dont think there is a difference b/w the Chennai Metro model & Delhi Metro model. This is like "Old wine in new bottle". Atlast people in Kochi became real fools !!!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi_Metro

"FundingThe capital cost of Phases I and II has been estimated to be 14,430 crore (US$3.2 billion) at 2004 prices. However, more recent estimates have placed the cost of construction at 200 crore (US$44.4 million) per kilometre. Thirty percent of the total investment for Phases I and II has been raised through equity capital with the Government of India (GoI) and Government of Delhi contributing equal shares, and approximately another 60 percent has been raised as either long-term or subordinate debt, through soft loans from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation. The rest of the investment is proposed to be recovered from internal revenues through operations and property development. The Metro also received 1,914.3 crore (US$425 million) as grant-in-aid from various agencies for the financial year ending March 2009. As of August 7, 2010, Delhi Metro has paid back an amount of 567.63 crore (US$126.01 million), which includes loan amount for Phase I and interest amounts for Phases I and II, to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)."

So it is confirmed that Mr KV Thomas like leaders from kerala & Congress was blocking the Kochi Metro approval for the last 5 years !!! Atleast people should understand that.

I dont think there is a difference b/w the Chennai Metro model & Delhi Metro model. This is like "Old wine in new bottle". Atlast people in Kochi became real fools !!!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi_Metro

"FundingThe capital cost of Phases I and II has been estimated to be 14,430 crore (US$3.2 billion) at 2004 prices. However, more recent estimates have placed the cost of construction at 200 crore (US$44.4 million) per kilometre. Thirty percent of the total investment for Phases I and II has been raised through equity capital with the Government of India (GoI) and Government of Delhi contributing equal shares, and approximately another 60 percent has been raised as either long-term or subordinate debt, through soft loans from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation. The rest of the investment is proposed to be recovered from internal revenues through operations and property development. The Metro also received 1,914.3 crore (US$425 million) as grant-in-aid from various agencies for the financial year ending March 2009. As of August 7, 2010, Delhi Metro has paid back an amount of 567.63 crore (US$126.01 million), which includes loan amount for Phase I and interest amounts for Phases I and II, to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)."

You call what, Chennai or Delhi... I am more worried about 200 crore per Km cost. Is it really feasible in Kochi? When we have alternatives to build 50crore km as monorail, I wonder why we embrace such high cost- more time consuming systems?

Arun, In Delhi, land acquisition was least, as most of the passes through Government lands or underground. The roads in Delhi are so wider that land acquisition are lowest.

This is not situation in Kochi. We find opposition from ordinary households, even to increase road width. So how acquisition happens involving the powerful business lobby? This means, acquisition costs will prove more costlier.

Lets keep politics at bay and see whether things move in Delhi or not. And even if a political decision comes, lets see how its going to be more of social reality.

You call what, Chennai or Delhi... I am more worried about 200 crore per Km cost. Is it really feasible in Kochi? When we have alternatives to build 50crore km as monorail, I wonder why we embrace such high cost- more time consuming systems?

Arun, In Delhi, land acquisition was least, as most of the passes through Government lands or underground. The roads in Delhi are so wider that land acquisition are lowest.

This is not situation in Kochi. We find opposition from ordinary households, even to increase road width. So how acquisition happens involving the powerful business lobby? This means, acquisition costs will prove more costlier.

Lets keep politics at bay and see whether things move in Delhi or not. And even if a political decision comes, lets see how its going to be more of social reality.

^^ I agree with you. Land acquisition will be a problem. Do you think that DMRC didnt analyse these issues while making the proposal ? They have experience and they will sort out the issues without much complications. Lets hope for the best.

Similar issues were there in Bangalore also. Govt didnt had much land. There were so many protests from the shop owners in CMH Road in Bangalore. It is a sensitive area also, because majority of the population in that area are tamilians. Still, BMRCL handled it well and gave proper compensation to people and the acquisition was smooth. So similar issues will be there in Kochi also.

Now metro work is almost over in CMH road. This road is a narrow road. But after the construction, now roads are open again and very less space is used for pillars. In Kochi too, corporation has to divert the vehicles for 2-3 years to finish the work. It will surely affect the business in those areas. Same is the case with any infrastructure work. it is for public and we cannot halt it for just business people !!!

^^ I agree with you. Land acquisition will be a problem. Do you think that DMRC didnt analyse these issues while making the proposal ? They have experience and they will sort out the issues without much complications. Lets hope for the best.

DMRC analysised and reported in their report for large scale acquisition in MG Road. For them, its all paper reports. But ground reality is different and the government will surely feel the heat, the moment they touch the hot plate.

As I said, even VS and his Poochas couldn't get back even an inch of encroached land in MG Road, how can this government think of large scale acquisitions?

The district administration failed to pull down a bridge due to the lobby of very small petty traders working below and side of North ROB. How then one can think touching Seematti or Josco or Jayalakshmi or Shenoys?


Similar issues were there in Bangalore also. Govt didnt had much land. There were so many protests from the shop owners in CMH Road in Bangalore. It is a sensitive area also, because majority of the population in that area are tamilians. Still, BMRCL handled it well and gave proper compensation to people and the acquisition was smooth. So similar issues will be there in Kochi also.

Bangalore has spread out quite well in past few years. Though a large volume of business happens within MG Road or CMH, still most of new gen business investments have moved outer main road.

This is not in case of Kochi. Even today most of business are concentrating in MG Road and pace of development in other stretches are comparatively less than MG Road.

Naturally the heat will be more when we touch MG Road


Now metro work is almost over in CMH road. This road is a narrow road. But after the construction, now roads are open again and very less space is used for pillars. In Kochi too, corporation has to divert the vehicles for 2-3 years to finish the work. It will surely affect the business in those areas. Same is the case with any infrastructure work. it is for public and we cannot halt it for just business people !!!

2 to 3 years is pretty small for metro. Even Dubai required 4 years. Even if MG Road gets closed for 2/3 years, the business will diminish and spread out to Byepass, which I consider as positive move. But the issue is that, then why the metro line is required in MG Road, if less traffic at MG Road? Surely it will affect metro's prospects.

Friend, you can convince me or others, the need of metro. But surely its not easy to convince people, who invested 5 or 10 crore for their business which are mainly bank loans.... Seematti just build their new showroom at a cost of 10 crore. Do they surrender their land for the future of Kochi? No way. The combined business values of MG Road will be surely around 50 to 60 crore. I am pretty sure, that this is not as easy as we write in paper.

We lost 8 years in this process and escalated the cost to more than twice. By going again with these hurdles, it takes another 5 to 6 years, which means cost escalate to another 3000 crore.... So its high time, we citizens of Kochi to think, rather going behind emotional reasons or false pride.

MI, where did you get the 50 Crore figure? From the MMRDA website, the mumbai monorail costs 139Cr/km

http://202.71.136.179/mmrda/showProject.jsp?srv=asPmGi50GKgRqD

MI, where did you get the 50 Crore figure? From the MMRDA website, the mumbai monorail costs 139Cr/km

http://202.71.136.179/mmrda/showProject.jsp?srv=asPmGi50GKgRqD

Dileep, the idea of Monorail became less popular in India, only after implementation of Mumbai Monorail, due to terrible cost over-runs. The cost when planned as pegged at 87 crore per km

http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-09-29/mumbai/27981519_1_mumbai-monorail-jacob-circle-mmrda-joint-commissioner

Yet, there were terrible delays, extreme case of corruption, inefficiency in building Mumbai Monorail, that today it costs somewhat similar to Metro line.

But that cannot taken as global phenomenon. We could acquire land and build an airport as whole for 300 crore Rs in Kochi, where recently many terminals alone were built at more than 400 crore.

So its upto the implementors to implement cost-effectively and control costs.

Globally its accepted theory that Monorails costs very less than Metro.

http://www.lightrailnow.org/myths/m_monorail001.htm

You can read the above article.

Just like in our case, our inefficiency made the Kochi Metro to start from 2000 Crore to 5000 crore, which may reach even to 6000 crore at time of implementation, which cannot be considered as global phenomenon.

MI, did you actually read that link. It says monorail is not significantly cheaper!

MI, did you actually read that link. It says monorail is not significantly cheaper!

Yes, I have read that... I just put forward both views because I felt its an open forum and I donot need to give an one sided figure.

Yet, we see its cheaper on comparison to Metro, though not CHEAPEST. I thought to put, to project KL Monorail which is one of the lowest cost per km ratio. Of-course, we must also calculate cost per person per km which would make Monorails bit disadvantage. But in a city like Kochi, we need not think of a traffic as that of Mumbai or Bangalore or Chennai.

My concern is, 4470 Crore for just 30 Km stretch, which in near future may lose its major traffic stretch hotspot is bit more extravagant. Rather with that same cost, we can build more Monorails routes.

The big concern for me in case of Monorail and Metro is that, it passes thro. 3 major bottlenecks, which is very difficult to land acquisition

1. Edappally Toll Gate to Kaloor,
2. MG ROAD
3. SA-Vytilla

These three stretch houses Kochi's most strategic commercial interests and pretty time consuming if land acquisition is required as per Metro requirements. Whereas Monorail needs no land acquisition and save much of time required to address above needs.

Perhaps, the most best stretches for Metro are

1, Aroor-Paravur Highway
2. Irumpanam-Kakkanad-Perumbavoor-CIAL route
3. Petta-Kizhambalam route

where land is available and less commercial interests, which can spur more commercial/real estate activity in these stretches. Its far better than working on extremely saturated routes like Aluva-MG Road-Petta route

Rather Monorails can be considered for

1. Aluva-MG Road-Petta routes
2. Fort Kochi-Willingdon Island-South Juntion
3. Cherai-Vallarpadam-High Court routes

Perhaps with current metro allocation, I am pretty sure, we can consider the above routes than one line Metro

I think, this also serves the logic of Tamil Nadu Govt to start 100 kms route in Monorail, especially those passing congested areas.

Anyway, lets wait and see, how long this process will happen. Perhaps Chandy may be superfast, but requires to know, how long red-tapes and lobbying tapes unwind....

There are a lot of positives from Mohammed's point of view, but i have the following comments on that:

1) We cannot expect Bypass or any other road for that matter, to grow to the likes of Shk Zayed Road in 5 years, so MG Road-SA Road Corridor will still remain the business hub for the next 10-15 years at least. Having said that, the metro construction should start now and should finish in a max of 5 years.

2) Even if MG Road, SA Road loses out the CBD tag later on, people will still need conveyance to the most affluence part of Kochi, the marine drive, Fort Kochi, Vallarpadam - the business hub in the making, so it not a good idea to drop Metro line from the current alignment. I would suggest that the alignment should also consider Marine Drive in the next stage. (As MI said, if the cost factor is significant, Monorail is the best option here too.)

Kochi Mayor Tony Chammany announced that Government of Kerala has released 42 crore Rs for acquisition of land for construction of Atlantis ROB. The Corporation is now entrusted with construction of ROB as a preliminary works for Metro.

This was announced by Mayor in official Facebook page
:banana::banana::banana::banana:

http://www.facebook.com/mayorkochi

Cheers, its something to cheer.... Chandy is really taken urgent care for the lost 5 years for Kochi

There are a lot of positives from Mohammed's point of view, but i have the following comments on that:

1) We cannot expect Bypass or any other road for that matter, to grow to the likes of Shk Zayed Road in 5 years, so MG Road-SA Road Corridor will still remain the business hub for the next 10-15 years at least. Having said that, the metro construction should start now and should finish in a max of 5 years.

Infact, I don't wish to have a prolonged debate here regarding this. But I would like to make a concluding observations. Perhaps, in these days communications, I think DMRC officials have every good reason to communicate with local public and convince them about feasibility of a route plan made in 2004. I am sure, we live in an information era and its very important for success any project, to garner maximum public opinion and sure conviction to all

1. I don't think Byepass will grow like Sheikh Zayed, as the level of Dubai's growth is mainly attributed to the strong vision of a visionary, which we donot have much, coupled with oil and trade powers. But unless we have a proper masterplan, where politicians and public have clear idea, where should thrust given to grow, our city shall not grow, whether we have a metro or airport.

We still live in the thrust given by Sir Robert Bristow in 1924, where MG Road is sole business road. If he had same attitude, surely instead of 30 feet MG Road, we would still stuck up with 15 ft Chitoor Road as the prime arterial road. Rather he wanted a new area for growth.

Kochi Byepass is no more a byepass, rather part of City road network. Unless the corporation, citizens and politicians feel and understand that the Aroor-Paravur highway will be future arterial of Kochi, every single development project is all set to bring in chaos. Its like pouring more water into bucket full of water.


2) Even if MG Road, SA Road loses out the CBD tag later on, people will still need conveyance to the most affluence part of Kochi, the marine drive, Fort Kochi, Vallarpadam - the business hub in the making, so it not a good idea to drop Metro line from the current alignment. I would suggest that the alignment should also consider Marine Drive in the next stage. (As MI said, if the cost factor is significant, Monorail is the best option here too.)

We say in Malayalam, Amrathu adikkam ayyal, athum Visham annu... More development in one point of area, will make that part, decay more faster than any other part. We have a clear example in terms of Mattancherry, where untill early 20th century, every single development was focused within Kochi Island. The end result, Mattencherry suffocated with population explosion and result in urban decay. This should not happen atleast to Ernakulam. The British Engineer Bristow was wise enough to see this, by developing Ernakulam. Now its our turn to see Kakkanad, Perumbavoor, Aluva and Kizhambalam as future Cochin.

I am putting a voluntary end to this discussions. Thanks friends for sharing your thoughts. Lets all join hands together to shape our city.

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Esperanza in Airport Seaport Road
http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/9237/esperanzap.jpg
Courtesy:Mather projects (http://Matherprojects .com)


Asset Homes Ipulse Near Infopark
http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/1176/ipulse4.jpg

View of Infopark from Ipulse
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Courtesy:Asset Homes (www.assethomes.in)

Highways leading to City of Cochin
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Courtesy: Arun mathew

Esperanza in Airport Seaport Road


Asset Homes Ipulse Near Infopark

View of Infopark from Ipulse
Asset Homes[/URL]

Nice snaps, JohnJoseph!
-Vin

Mini bypass eases traffic congestion in Tripunithura (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/08/stories/2011060867990300.htm)

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/08/images/2011060867990301.jpg

KOCHI: Residents and motorists passing through the congested roads in Tripunithura now have an alternative, with the mini-bypass being opened for traffic a few days ago.

It links Gandhi Square on the Kundanoor Junction-Pettah stretch with the Tripunithura-Vaikom Road and passes through the new bridge built parallel to the Iron Bridge, the RLV College of Music and Fine Arts, the Oval Cricket Ground and Kannamkulangara. Though the road has been re-surfaced and widened in many places with drains, a few curves continue to be very sharp and narrow.

The chairman of the Tripunithura Municipality, R. Venugopal, said that the tender to widen the curves and narrow stretches has been finalised and the work is estimated to cost Rs 26 lakh.

“Medians would be built at the bell mouths along the mini bypass, so that vehicles can safely criss-cross each other. Lane-demarcating lines would be painted along the bypass,” he said.

The PWD has built a toll booth near the new bridge, to collect toll from motorists using the stretch.

The toll rates are yet to be fixed.

Responding to a question on whether select buses would be diverted through the bypass to decongest Tripunithura town, Mr. Venugopal said that no decision has been taken on this.

“New bus permits could be issued through the road. The proposed widening of the Kaniampuzha-Eroor Road would further decongest Pettah,” he said.

As of now, private vehicles and goods carriers using the bypass can save considerable time and fuel.

Though no traffic signal has been presently planned at the busy junction near Gandhi Square, medians would be built to channelise vehicle flow. Members of the public had been demanding an overbridge at the extremely-congested S. N. Junction in Tripunithura, but to little avail.

Once more vehicles begin to use the bypass, it would temporarily decongest the junction and the stretch towards Irumpanam where toll has to be paid for using the RBDCK's overbridge.

Main bypass

The development of the full stretch of the Tripunithura bypass on the Kochi-Madurai stretch of National Highway 49 had been in limbo, with pressure groups opposing alignments that had been suggested to build a road that bypasses the congested roads in Tripunithura town. The bypass was mooted over a decade ago to connect Kundanoor Junction on the Vytilla-Aroor NH 47 with Mattakuzhi, located off Thiruvankulam.

It would have considerably eased traffic congestion between Vytilla and Thiruvankulam, decongesting roads in Tripunithura, S.N. Junction and Pettah.

The opening of the mini-bypass is expected to catalyse the work on the main bypass.

Bright prospects for IT sector in State (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/08/stories/2011060858050700.htm)

KOCHI: The losing charm of Bangalore as an Information Technology (IT) hub presents the State with an opportunity to pitch itself as an alternative investment destination for IT and IT-Enabled Services companies.

For that to happen the State, however, will have to position itself and market its potential in the right way besides formulating farsighted plans to fine-tune its infrastructure capabilities, according to IT players in the State.

A recent study conducted by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) revealed that Bangalore was in danger of being dislodged as the premier IT hub of the country thanks to its crumbling infrastructure.

Gurgaon and Noida were the new contenders to the IT throne, with 55 per cent of IT companies in Bangalore preferring to shift their operations to these satellite cities, the study said.

Gigo Joseph, Chief Executive Officer of Infopark, believes that Kerala can take similar advantage from the IT companies' new found preference for tier two and tier three cities. “We are planning to market our upcoming space in a way to leverage the new possibilities before the State in the IT sector,” Mr. Joseph says. Infopark along with its co-developers is set to develop over 1 crore sq ft in the next five to eight years. The growth forecast of 16-18 per cent by the National Association of Software and Services Companies for the country's IT sector also augurs well, he says.

Anoop P. Ambika, secretary of the Group of Technology Companies (GTECH), feels that greater industry-academia collaboration is the need of the hour as quality and value of services offered will be critical in the days to come.

“Similarly, we need to have in an Invest in Kerala Mission drawn of representatives from the government, industry, and well-connected Malayalis abroad to bring about a change in perception of the State as an investment destination. Successful entrepreneurs from the State sharing their stories in front of a global audience will definitely help that image makeover,” Mr. Anoop says. Developed countries have even city-specific mission to attract investments.

The scope for connectivity from Kerala to Europe through Dubai should also be prominently highlighted, he adds.

According to IT Department sources, the brand Kerala has to be projected as a more complete package. Campaigns should convey the investment possibilities in the State also rather than merely evoking images of Ayurveda or Kathakali alone as has been the case now because of the mostly independent nature of campaigns by different departments.

They, however, feel that lack of auxiliary services like international public schools of repute in the State is a major drawback since quality education for children is a high priority for IT employees.

Mr. Anoop warns that civic issues like solid waste management may prove to be a challenge to the State in the days to come hampering its IT prospects unless the government resorts to thoughtful civic planning immediately.

Bright prospects for IT sector in State (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/08/stories/2011060858050700.htm)

The scope for connectivity from Kerala to Europe through Dubai should also be prominently highlighted, he adds.


I wonder, why the Govt. or even CIAL is not able to bridge Europe directly with Kochi! I feel there is enough passenger patronage to sustain that!

I wonder, why the Govt. or even CIAL is not able to bridge Europe directly with Kochi! I feel there is enough passenger patronage to sustain that!

Condor had some plans to connect Kochi with Frankfurt. Dont know what happened to that proposal ?

It is true that a lot of the pax on emirates/gulf air/ethihad are actually connecting to Europe and USA. Still, that won't be enough to run a direct europe hop I think. You can't fly B737/A320 to Europe. Each airline should fly at least a 250 seater. I don't think there is enough patronage for that. Right now, the connections via gulf is working great. You land at Dubai in early morning, and board a connection within a couple of hours. Much better than flying to Mumbai and facing the hassle of transferring domestic/international

X-posting from Cityscapes Thread
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5173/5475309965_e02a91a35e_b.jpg
CC- Gulfu Photos in Flickr

The upcoming posh area of Kochi, near Kundannoor Bridge, offering an amazing views of Le Meridien Resort with Green roofs, BPCL Office complex in circular shape, upcoming Intercontinental Kochi hotel in far center, The 40 storied Choice Paradise tower at long far, the Le Meridien Suites at right end.


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cc- Erica in Flickr

The ICTT Terminal of Vallarpadom in night.

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CC- Erica in Flickr

Old meets new.... The 700 year old Chinese fishing nets, the symbol of Kochi, welcoming one of the largest Cruiser to Kochi

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5022/5743389976_07b95e8876_b.jpg
CC- Erica in Flickr

Old meets new.... The 700 year old Chinese fishing nets, the symbol of Kochi, welcoming one of the largest Cruiser to Kochi

I must tell one thing... I never liked Chinese Fishing Nets when seeing directly, which looks too odd, untidy and extremely primitive in nature. However I also profess, its one of the most photogenic structure, which I have ever seen. Any pics of this structure, looks so mesmerizing like any other world wonders like Effiel tower or Statue of Liberty. I don't whats that magic.

Last week, I happened to visit Khalidya Mall in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Nearly 12 giant size portraits/banners of Chinese Fishing nets were displayed in that mall and I saw many foreigners and Arabs taking their pictures before it. I forgot to take my camera, else I would have posted it.

But I feel the governments fail to make the surroundings neat and clean. I think, its high time, the government stop operating the remaining structures and declare it heritage structures, by preserving it with utmost care. Most of the current operators, handle in very rough way and some replace the original structures with steel rods and other unsuitable materials. Likewise a photo point is required near the original structure, for tourists to stand and get pictures of this living heritage of Kerala. After all, this is a clear testimony of 800 year old Indo-Chinese relationship.

whats the stage of Lulu Convention centre at bolgatty... the land was handed over in feb'11...
www.cochinport.com/contracts/contracts%20concluded_mar15.pdf

whats the stage of Lulu Convention centre at bolgatty... the land was handed over in feb'11...
www.cochinport.com/contracts/contracts%20concluded_mar15.pdf

^^^^^^

Yes, my sources says, Lulu is in designing stage of new project there. They are in discussion with 2 major hotel groups for their franchise rights, Marriot and Hyatt. I also heard, they are looking for other hotel majors, as they want a super luxury brand at lower franchise rates.

I also understand, Yousaf Ali got operational rights within Smart City to operate another Premium star hotel project (I am not sure, whether is hotel or some mall project, as its are rumours). There are talks here, this serves the reason, why Yousaf Ali was nominated as from Dubai Supreme Fiscal Committee in Smart City Board, instead of nomination from Kerala Govt.

X-posting from Cityscapes Thread
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5173/5475309965_e02a91a35e_b.jpg
CC- Gulfu Photos in Flickr

The upcoming posh area of Kochi, near Kundannoor Bridge, offering an amazing views of Le Meridien Resort with Green roofs, BPCL Office complex in circular shape, upcoming Intercontinental Kochi hotel in far center, The 40 storied Choice Paradise tower at long far, the Le Meridien Suites at right end.



Fantastic shots!!

BTW Wud u beleive even these areas are not part of cochin corporation. :nuts:

X-posting from KochiNow
Kochi: NH 47 Six-Lane Highway between Aroor & Vytilla

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A prelude to building metro rail (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/09/stories/2011060964070300.htm)

KOCHI: Decks have been cleared for the construction of a four-lane North overbridge. The State government has asked the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) to hand over a portion of the Manappattiparambu Ground adjacent to the North overbridge to Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for stacking machinery and construction materials.

The civic agency had earlier declined to hand over the ground for the 18-month period during which the bridge would be pulled down in two phases. The DMRC would first raze the two and three-wheeler roads on either side of the bridge. After rebuilding these roads into a two-lane stretch, the main carriageway would be reconstructed. The project cost is Rs.70 crore.

DMRC sources say the work would begin in a week once the ground is handed over. “We would take the lead in shifting the pipelines and cables that run through the bridge, with assistance from the agencies concerned.”

Alternate routes

When the work on the bridge is on, a sizeable volume of traffic would be diverted through the Thammanam-Pullepady Road and the Vallarpadam-Kalamassery highway. The District Collector Sheik Pareed said that the Thammanam-Pullepady Road has to be widened into a four-lane one. “High-mast lights have been planned at junctions along the Vallarpadam highway, so that vehicles can safely commute along the stretch,” he said.

The Kochi Corporation will have to acquire four hectares of land for widening the road and another four hectares to rehabilitate the evictees. The State government's nod is awaited so that people can transfer or sell development rights of their lands. It had recently earmarked Rs.48 crore to acquire land for the Atlantis overbridge, which would decongest the Ernakulam South overbridge.

Ten cents of land has to be acquired after removing the encroachers for building a footpath beside the North overbridge. Referring to observations that around 65 acres of land would have to acquired for the metro-rail project, Mr. Pareed said that the pillars for the rails would occupy a width of just 1.20 metres.

“The rest of the space would be used to widen existing roads, thereby streamlining traffic flow in the city, and to build metro-stations. The roads that would be widened to build the mass-rapid transport system would have proper pedestrian ways, handrails, service ducts and drains. Only 17 cents of land has to be acquired on MG Road and a few shops would have to surrender a few feet of land on the road side,” he said.

The State government's approval is awaited to widen the Rajaji Road into a 22-metre stretch, so that vehicles coming towards the west from the Salim Rajan Road flyover (for which the DMRC has tendered the work) can easily enter the widened MG Road. The DMRC would widen the Town Hall-Madhav Pharmacy Junction stretch alongside the North overbridge works.

Sources in the DMRC agency said that widening the MG Road and the approach road from MG Road to the Ernakulam Junction railway station would be done along with work on the metro-rail. The PWD is yet to widen the narrow Vytilla-Pettah Road into a four-lane one, though the proposed metro-rail begins at Aluva and ends at Pettah.

UNESCO to restore the past of Fort Kochi, Mattanchery
http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/09/images/2011060964090301.jpg
Heritage site: Conservation experts have completed
the action plan for FortKochi areas. A view of the
St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi.

KOCHI: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has come up with an action plan for the conservation and management of the heritage zone of Fort Kochi and Mattanchery. Representatives of the agency will meet Chief Minister Oommen Chandy at Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday to discuss the project.

Heritage conservation experts have completed the initial assessment and action plan for Fort Cochin and Mattancherry areas.

They have drawn up proposals for a heritage management plan for these areas by integrating conservation and development, experts associated with the project said.

Kochi had earlier joined the Indian Heritage Cities Network (IHCN) programme of UNESCO.

The civic administrators had sought support of the network and the agency for protecting and conserving its heritage assets and using them for future development.

Following this, the UNESCO experts had developed a draft action plan which contained a list of activities and projects for the protection, conservation, and utilisation of the heritage resources of Kochi in a sustainable manner. It emphasised on planning, governance, awareness creation, formulation of pilot projects in the public and private realms and technical advice and incentives to the private homeowners for heritage conservation. It also envisaged the development of a Kochi conservation plan, which will be integrated into the development plan for Kochi City Region 2031 of the civic body.

According to the plan, UNESCO and IHCN will provide a framework and technical assistance for the development of the Kochi plan and ensure the presence of national and international experts in its monitoring and implementation, experts said. It was also suggested to establish a heritage cell in Kochi Corporation to assist the civic body to establish a heritage house and implement restoration of some key public squares. These restoration efforts will be there for the people to witness the improvement of the environment and up-gradation of areas through heritage-based projects, they said.

Some of the projects proposed to the areas include the “improvement of safety lighting in the Fort Kochi water edge areas”, a model street improvement and revitalisation for Mattancherry Street and model restoration projects for private homes, commercial properties, and public buildings.

The improvement of Fort Kochi boat and Bus Stand Square, a project for Mattancherry Palace and Jetty Square improvement, sprucing up and improvement of community-level open spaces in Mattanchery and environmental improvement and revitalisation of Kalvathy canal have also been proposed.

After the discussion with the Chief Minister, the experts will present the project before the civic representatives and the corporation council.

The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/09/stories/2011060964090300.htm)

These Chinese nets were brought by Portuguese and not by the Chinese. Even now, different parts of nets's assembly are known by their Portuguese names.

After all, this is a clear testimony of 800 year old Indo-Chinese relationship.

Deleted

A financial boost for Atlantis RoB project
KOCHI: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy's statement on Wednesday that the Rs 48 crore will be allotted for the land acquisition for the much-delayed Atlantis Railway Overbridge (RoB) project will give a new lease of life to it.
The Atlantis RoB was proposed to reduce traffic congestion on either side of the Ernakulam South Overbridge. If the RoB project becomes a reality, vehicles from the Sahodaran Ayyappan Road moving towards Thevara and Ravipuram will be able to take a left turn from Manorama Junction and reach the Atlantis bridge through Panampilly Nagar. The bridge, which is expected to decongest the city to a considerable extent, will also be a relief to commuters coming from Girinagar.
A top Corporation official said that the decision to allot funds for the acquisition of land will give a thrust to the project. "The Kerala Industrial and Technical Consultancy Organisation (KITCO) had already completed the project report for the Atlantis and Pachalam RoBs as per the instruction of the Roads and Bridges Development Corporation of Kerala (RBDCK). Now it is the responsibility of the RBDCK to carry the project forward," said the official.
However, he said that the initial alignment approved by the Kochi Corporation was later changed as the huge tower with hi-power transmission lines to the Cochin Shipyard was identified as an obstacle. "Relocating the tower would involve a cost of Rs 3 crore."
"So they had decided to realign the bridge without touching the tower. But this is expected to make considerable increase in the total cost of construction," the official said.
Indian Express (http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/a-financial-boost-for-atlantis-rob-project/282390.html)

Experts visit site of Kundannoor bridge
TRIPUNITHURA: Experts, headed by Harbour chief engineer Mohankumar visited the proposed site of the Kundannoor-Nettoor parallel bridge on Tuesday.
The bridge has been a longstanding demand of the people here as the only means of conveyance here is just a country boat service, operated by the Maradu municipality. Recently, a child died while trying to cross the river in a country boat along with its family.
At the time of the completion of the KundannoorThevara bridge, there was a proposal to construct another bridge connecting Kundannoor with Nettoor which will help shift the building materials needed for the construction of the Kundannoor-Thevara bridge to a convenient place.
But, according to the local people, several vested interests worked against the proposal.
If the dream comes true, the bridge linking the Kundannoor-Thevara main bridge with Nettoor PWD road will be a boon to the people of the two densely populated areas.
Moreover, to ease the traffic block at Kundannoor Junction, the parallel bridge will help vehicles take a deviation from Nettoor INTUC Junction to Kundannoor main bridge.
It will also increase the possibilities of Nettoor to become part of the expanding Smart City as this area lies close to Kochi, Thevara, Kundannoor and Aroor.

Indian Express (http://expressbuzz.com/states/kerala/experts-visit-site-of-kundannoor-bridge/282166.html)

What about things like ചീനച്ചട്ടി, ചീനഭരണി etc?

These Chinese nets were brought by Portuguese and not by the Chinese. Even now, different parts of nets's assembly are known by their Portuguese names.

From where you got this strange observation? In all the materials, which I have gone through on net, including Kerala tourism says that the structures which we see in Kochi was erected by Chinese traders as a gift from Kublai Khan- the Chinese Emperor to Kochi King between 1350 to 1450.

http://www.keralatourism.org/destination/destination.php?id=2132066030

The technique became popular and later expanded to almost all other parts of Kerala. But the specific reason why Cheenavala in Kochi attracts more views than any other Cheenavala in any other part of Kerala, is simply because of its legacy. Otherwise why not people rush towards Kumbalangi, just 20 kms down Fort Kochi, which have atleast Chennavalas atleast 10 times more than Fort Kochi.

A day after the high-level conference chaired by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy decided to push hard for the Kochi Metro Rail Project, the state has sent a detailed note to the Prime Minister’s Office, specifying the reworked modalities for the project.

The estimated cost of the new proposal, which banks on the Chennai Metro Rail project model, has been pegged at Rs 4,427 crore which is more than double the estimated cost in 2005.

The original project cost in 2005 was Rs 1,966 crore. “The revised proposal has been sent to the PMO. We are hoping to get the clearance at the earliest as the initial objection regarding the population of Kochi is no more being raised,” Tom Jose, Principal Secretary of Transport Department and Special Officer of Kochi Metro Project, told Express.

The new model demands 15 percent Central equity. The state, too, will hold the same figure. The cost of the land for the project would cover five percent subordinate debt, which is usually the amount met by the govt as an interest-free loan to the company, would cover 11 percent and exemption of taxes for the materials for construction would cover another 3 percent, which would put the Centre-state share in the project at 49 percent.

On the other hand, the proposal says that 51 percent of the project cost would be met through loan from either Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) or from India Infrastructure Ltd, the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) floated by the Centre with a corpus of Rs 10,000 crore for infrastructure projects. “We are confident of drawing a loan from either of these agencies. We are insisting a Central equity in the project so that it would be easier to avail a JICA loan if the Centre is part of the project”, Tom Jose said.

It has been estimated that 25 hectares of land would be required for the project out of which 15.9 hectares is private land. “Along with the land acquisition process, four-laning of the North over-bridge will also be initiated,’’ Tom Jose said. The state has also decided to form a separate company for the implementation of the project.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kochi-metro-rail-cost-details-submitted-to-pm/157960-60-116.html

In order to strengthen the sewerage system of the city, the Kochi Corporation is planning to set up a new sewerage treatment plant at Brahmapuram. The new plant, according to a top Corporation official, will solve the issue of unscientific disposal of septic waste which causes serious health and environmental hazards. The civic body is planning to construct the new plant at Brahmapuram which will treat sewage of various divisions under the Corporation as well as neighbouring municipalities and panchayats.

The decision to build the new plant was taken at the Kochi Corporation Health Standing Committee meeting held the other day. "The construction of the new plant will have to be discussed at the Corporation Council meeting. The plan will be finalised only after obtaining the council's nod," Kochi Corporation Health Standing Committee chairman T K Ashraf said. A feasibility study has to be conducted after discussing the plan in the council. "At present the civic body holds 100 acres of land at Brahmapuram. A special team under the Health Standing Committee will visit the place to identify a suitable location. The feasibility study will focus mainly on the type of plant to be set up. As per the initial idea, we are planning a modernised treatment plant," he said.
Ashraf said that waste will be transported to the proposed plant through tanker lorries. "There are several issues related to the disposal and dumping of septic waste into rivers and remote areas. The new plant will solve the issue," he said.

Ashraf said that as there is no need for any land acquisition to set up the plant, the civic body is hopeful of constructing it in a time-bound manner.
"There is no need to construct pump houses and lay pipes so there won't be much constraint in setting up the plant," he said.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/new-sewerage-treatment-plant-soon/157817-60-122.html

A day after the high-level conference chaired by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy decided to push hard for the Kochi Metro Rail Project, the state has sent a detailed note to the Prime Minister’s Office, specifying the reworked modalities for the project.

The estimated cost of the new proposal, which banks on the Chennai Metro Rail project model, has been pegged at Rs 4,427 crore which is more than double the estimated cost in 2005.

The new model demands 15 percent Central equity. The state, too, will hold the same figure. The cost of the land for the project would cover five percent subordinate debt, which is usually the amount met by the govt as an interest-free loan to the company, would cover 11 percent and exemption of taxes for the materials for construction would cover another 3 percent, which would put the Centre-state share in the project at 49 percent.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kochi-metro-rail-cost-details-submitted-to-pm/157960-60-116.html


This is not Chennai metro model. In chennai metro, It is 41% equity by GoTN and GOI. Read this in this link.
http://www.chennaimetrorail.gov.in/tenders/PIM_OM-EOI.pdf

This is similar to the Bangalore metro model. Why are they calling it as Chennai metro model. Chennai is similar to Delhi metro only. This is another paid news !!! Its pity that medias like IBN are making news for Congress party.

See the funding pattern of BMRC with 15% equity from GOI and GOK !!

http://bmrc.co.in/fund.html

ഇഷ്ടമില്ലാത്തച്ചി തൊട്ടതെല്ലാം കുറ്റം!
മകള്* ഉടച്ചാല്* മണ്*കുടം, മരുമകള്* ഉടച്ചാല്* പൊന്**കുടം!

whats the stage of Lulu Convention centre at bolgatty... the land was handed over in feb'11...
www.cochinport.com/contracts/contracts%20concluded_mar15.pdf

well, at the project site, they have started levelling the ground, it seems fencing work also going on.

I believe LuLu is planning a fantastic iconic structure in this land, some thing in the likes of Sydney opera house and hopefully it will be kochi's iconic sign in the near future. waitin fingers crossed.:)

It seems, Ommen Chandy is all address Kochi wooes of neglect for past few years, in one single day..... He is going damn super fast. Another Government order released to solve Kochi's water crisis......

To solve the potable water crisis in the city, the State Government has allocated Rs 11 crore for acquiring land for the Maradu Water Treatment Plant project. The civic body will be able to acquire the private
land for laying pipes between the Muvattupuzha river and the treatment plant in Maradu.

The Rs 201-crore Maradu Water Treatment Plant with a capacity to recycle 100 million litres of water a day (mld) was proposed in 2006 as a solution to the shortage of potable water in Kochi, especially the West Kochi area. The project was later included in the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission(JNNURM).

As per the original plan, raw water will be collected from the Muvattupuzha river at Pazhoorkadavu. The recycled water will be supplied mainly to Maradu, Kumbalam, Kumbalangi, Chellanam, Edakochi, Fort Kochi, Naval Base, Thevara and the Port areas which are reeling under acute potable water shortage.
However, the project is at a standstill for the last few months owing to protests by the residents of the Piravom area against the digging of Nadakkavu-Koothattukulam Road for the project. An alternative route was also proposed by the Piravom Municipality.

Instead of the originally proposed route of Piravom-Arakkunnam-Mulanthuruthy, the new suggestion was to bring the water to the plant through Vattukunnu, Vettikkal, Pampra and Karoorkavu route.

But the civic authorities are yet to take a final decision on the new route.
"The decision of the state government to allow funds for acquiring land is indeed a breather for the project.

But still we cannot say that the new route is a feasible idea. An additional
water tank has to be constructed if we opt for the new route. The pumping cost alone will be Rs 1.5 crore annually along with electricity charges to the tune of Rs 1.5 crore causing an additional liability of Rs 3 crore annually."

"However, we are expecting a favourable decision soon," said Kochi Corporation Town Planning Committee chairman K J Sohan.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/funds-to-tackle-water-crisis/157818-60-122.html


I wish all the best success for the project. Hope this govt continues its term, so that Kochi will its rightful share:banana::banana::banana::banana:

ഇഷ്ടമില്ലാത്തച്ചി തൊട്ടതെല്ലാം കുറ്റം!
മകള്* ഉടച്ചാല്* മണ്*കുടം, മരുമകള്* ഉടച്ചാല്* പൊന്**കുടം!

You are right !! This is what medias are doing now. When LDF proposed Kochi metro in DMRC model, medias and central govt opposed it. Now the name is changed and it is called "Chennai Metro model". Now all medias are Happy, because Congress proposed it and they want to give all the credit to Congress. Mr KV THomas could have done this 2 years back !!!! People like KV Thomas are against all the developments in Kochi and medias will simply blame LDF. Finally people are the real fools by reading these kind of paid news !!!

You are right !! This is what medias are doing now. When LDF proposed Kochi metro in DMRC model, medias and central govt opposed it. Now the name is changed and it is called "Chennai Metro model". Now all medias are Happy, because Congress proposed it and they want to give all the credit to Congress. Mr KV THomas could have done this 2 years back !!!! People like KV Thomas are against all the developments in Kochi and medias will simply blame LDF. Finally people are the real fools by reading these kind of paid news !!!

Who told Central Govt approved the current proposal? K.V Thomas is not the Indian PM. Hence whether he approves or not, doesnot make the project becoming reality. In past too, I rarely saw K.V Thomas opposing the project. Rather most of the time, he was the one who accompanies Kerala team, at all official meetings....

The Central Govt didn't approve eariler, because the Finance Ministry issued an objection note. Planning commission is also against it. We still donot know, will Finance and Planning commission approves it or not?

Every year PM gives a statement, he will look into this matter.... But till now central govt was against it, which I believe is a geninue reason. Even this time, I feel, the central Govt may not approve it or continue with its In-Principle drama.....

Perhaps, it may a tactic for current UDF government to use the central rejection, for a valid alternative of going into PPP or private model. Since DMRC came openly against it, the govt donot want a conflict, hence it may a strategy......

By the way, I didn't see any open difference in Media attitudes. Almost all medias supported Kochi Metro, whether it was during A.K Antony's time, or later at Chandy's term or during VS term as well as current Chandy's term.

Anyway, lets hope for the best

Why does Hyundai have so many showrooms in Kochi?

There are around 4 MGF Hyundai Showrooms in Kochi - MG Road, Padivattom, Vytilla Bypass, Willington Island.

In addition to the above 4 showrooms, 2 new showrooms are opening in Kochi. One at Vytilla Bypass near Proposed Forum Mall. The next one is at Koonamthai, just opposite Kairali Ford Showroom!

It neither satisfies nor dissatisfies me :), rather it just increased my interest in history. Thanks for the link :cheers:


^^^^^^^^^^

@Rajkrish... I think, this article will satisfy you... It also analyzes Deepa's thoughts too...

http://maddy06.blogspot.com/2010/08/chinese-fishing-nets-at-kochi.html

Why does Hyundai have so many showrooms in Kochi?

There are around 4 MGF Hyundai Showrooms in Kochi - MG Road, Padivattom, Vytilla Bypass, Willington Island.

In addition to the above 4 showrooms, 2 new showrooms are opening in Kochi. One at Vytilla Bypass near Proposed Forum Mall. The next one is at Koonamthai, just opposite Kairali Ford Showroom!

What a Question? :nuts:

A commercial project from Noel.

http://i55.tinypic.com/20063gg.jpg

http://i55.tinypic.com/ilalir.jpg

cc-myself

Now, this is Dileepji's favorite shot, we met yesterday and roamed around Kakkanad to take pictures, "DLF annanmarude adi kittathe rekshapettu ennu paranjal mathy".

http://i52.tinypic.com/2s81tm1.jpg

Kudos... Kochi again ranked 4th highest in terms of Hiring out of 13 major cities of India, as per Monster Employment Index

:banana::banana::banana:

Coimbatore has shown the highest growth 31% in hiring when compared to any other city in India in May. The Monster Employment Index, a monthly gauge of Indian online job demand based on a review of opportunities taken from various job sites, including monsterindia.com, said Coimbatore, beat other major cities to show the highest growth in hiring in April and May.

Baroda came next, followed by Mumbai, Kochi and Jaipur. While Petroleum/Power outpaced all industry sectors in annual growth, Retail and Automotive/Ancillaries/Tyres sector stood next. Coimbatore has traditionally been a formidable player in the auto ancillaries industry.

"The index continues to record a positive year-over-year trend, with strong pockets of demand for professionals within the IT, oil/ gas and automotive sectors," said Sanjay Modi, MD (India/West Asia/ South East Asia), Monster.com. "All cities monitored by the index have registered positive annual growth indicating substantial opportunities for workers in these key markets." The index monitors growth in the top 13 cities in 13 sectors in India.


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Kovai-shows-highest-growth-in-hiring-in-May-says-survey/articleshow/8794101.cms

Now, this is Dileepji's favorite shot, we met yesterday and roamed around Kakkanad to take pictures, "DLF annanmarude adi kittathe rekshapettu ennu paranjal mathy".

http://i52.tinypic.com/2s81tm1.jpg

That is Confident Capella (http://www.confident-group.com/confident_capella_overview.htm)

A commercial project from Noel.

http://i55.tinypic.com/ilalir.jpg

cc-myself
That is Noel Focus.

fantastic shots Sanju :)

fantastic shots Sanju :)

Say thanks to Dileepji....:cheers:

http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/9454/dsc0679v.jpg http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/8093/dsc0625ci.jpg http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/5898/dsc0628k.jpg http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/4113/dsc0632yg.jpg http://img851.imageshack.us/img851/8491/dsc0645f.jpg http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/9923/dsc0618m.jpg

Nice snaps, Thnks Dileep n Sanju Bhayyaas!

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/4113/dsc0632yg.jpg

Is this Kadambrayar? or Chitrapuzha?

BTW, nice pics Sanjuvetta.

Is this Kadambrayar? or Chitrapuzha?

BTW, nice pics Sanjuvetta.

Chithrapuzha, AFAIK :)

CIAL to develop handicraft village
NEDUMBASSERY: In an effort to boost the growth in tourist traffic through the airport here, Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) is embarking on a plan to set up a handicraft retail network along the lines of the ‘Dilli Haat' in Delhi.

According to the company, it is developing an ‘Indian Handicraft Village' in front of the airport to promote tourism and cottage industries. It has floated a formal invitation calling on State emporiums, private associations and artisans from different States to join the initiative.

According to a senior CIAL official, the company directors' board had approved the scheme and CIAL was now looking for the possibility of receiving governmental grants for funding the project.
The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/10/stories/2011061055400200.htm)

Is this Kadambrayar? or Chitrapuzha?

BTW, nice pics Sanjuvetta.

Its Chitrapuzha.

DMRC to get land today
KOCHI: The land adjacent to the North overbridge will be handed over to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Friday. District Collector P.I. Sheikh Pareed said that as demanded by the DMRC, Manappattyparambu under the Greater Cochin Development Authority and land belonging to KSRTC will be handed over to it for the initial works. It will be used for the reconstruction of the North overbridge and for the construction of an overbridge at the Salim Rajan Road. The plot at Manappattyparambu comes to 7,244 sq.m. and that of the KSRTC land 1,500 sq.m.

The reconstruction of the overbridge had been conceived in seven phases. It will start with the demolition of the 4.5-metre wide extension on its either side. The beam for metro rail will also be erected alongside the reconstruction of the overbridge. There will be a 1.5-metre wide footpath on either side.

Traffic woes

Solutions to traffic problems caused by the reconstruction of the overbridge had been recommended based on an expert study conducted by a team led by the City Police Commissioner M.R. Ajith Kumar. Traffic will be diverted by making the many interior road networks in the city motorable. Excise Minister K. Babu will convene a meeting of various stakeholders in this regard shortly. DMRC Project Director P. Sriram had already handed over a design of the initial works to the Collector. The preliminary works will be completed in 18 months.

The first among these is to reconstruct the North overbridge as a four lane at an estimated cost of Rs.80.69 crore. Southern Railway will contribute Rs.13.86 crore, State government Rs.49.09 crore and DMRC will contribute Rs.17.64 towards this.

The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/10/stories/2011061065300300.htm)

Heritage project to start next month
KOCHI: The State government has sanctioned Rs.15 crore for the first phase of the Fort Kochi and Mattanchery heritage conservation projects supported by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

The decision to release the fund was taken at a meeting held between Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and the representatives of UNESCO who had prepared a draft conservation plan for the heritage areas. Kochi Corporation will implement the project with the support of heritage conservation experts. The civic body hopes to begin the conservation project next month, said Tony Chammany, Kochi Mayor. The Rs.51-crore conservation project is expected to be completed in 2013. UNESCO considered Kochi for the project after the city joining its Indian Heritage Cities Network.

Besides the UNESCO representatives, State Ministers P. K. Kunhalikutty and A. P. Anilkumar, Mayor Mr. Chammany, Finance secretary A. K. Dubey and chairman, Town Planning Standing committee of Kochi Corporation, K.J. Sohan, attended the meeting.

Action plan

The UNESCO has come up with an action plan for the conservation and management of the heritage zone of Fort Kochi and Mattanchery. Representatives of the agency will meet Chief Minister Oommen Chandy at Thiruvananthapuram to discuss the project.

Proposed projects

The improvement of Fort Kochi boat jetty, multi-family dwelling units, Bus Stand Square, a project for Mattancherry Palace and Jetty Square improvement, sprucing up and improvement of community-level open spaces in Mattanchery and environmental improvement and revitalisation of Kalvathy canal are some of the proposed projects under the scheme.

The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/10/stories/2011061064740300.htm)

Its Chitrapuzha.
Well, Both names are correct. The river is called Kadambrayar, and the bridge is called Chithrapuzha bridge. Actually the bridge is misnamed, because AFAIK, chitrapuzha is a tributary of the river. In fact the bridge near KRL is also named chitrapuzha bridge, causing confusion.

http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/9454/dsc0679v.jpg

I don't know what useful purpose this atrocity serves. They built kind of a security cabin there. For what, I don't know. Some day, someone is going to crash into that!!

http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/8093/dsc0625ci.jpg

Sahara Grace. The northern tower is topped out.

http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/5898/dsc0628k.jpg

On the right is Galaxy Greens. Need to check the left one.

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/4113/dsc0632yg.jpg


http://img851.imageshack.us/img851/8491/dsc0645f.jpg

On the left is Jewel Homes Lexington. They are in trouble because of the stink from Brahmapuram plant.

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/9923/dsc0618m.jpg
On the right is Seawood Anchor. Not sure what is on the left.

http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/9454/dsc0679v.jpg

The gates looks cool.... Bit more artistic input is required. If so, it will look somewhat like Abu Dhabi's Emirates Palace Gate or like Paris Arch de Triumph...

They should have put up a roof structure, akin to Kerala roofing styles with nymph/apsidal structures on its structures.

Anyway, nice to see some solid development.... Thanks Dileep and Sanju for putting some good pics. Kudos to both

The state government, on Thursday, gave the nod for the Fort Kochi/Mattanchery Heritage Conservation Project proposed by the Kochi Corporation.

The plan, formulated with the technical assistance of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), is proposed mainly for the conservation and management of the heritage zone of Fort Kochi and Mattanchery.

The decision came after a meeting held between Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and Kochi Mayor Tony Chammany and Town Planning committee chairman K J Sohan in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday.

The Chief Minister, after discussing the various aspects of the project with Industries Minister P K Kunhalikkutty and Tourism Minister A P Anilkumar, gave the inprinciple approval for the project.

The government will provide Rs 15 crore for the project, which will be implemented at an estimated cost of Rs 50 crore. The Corporation will be the nodal agency to implement the project.

"The Chief Minister said that Rs 10 crore out of the allocated amount will be released this year. The remaining amount of Rs 5 crore will be allotted next year. We are planning to include the project in the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM)," Chammany said. The delegates of UNESCO were also present at the meeting.

"The experts from UNESCO have prepared a detailed report on the list of activities and projects that are needed for the protection, conservation and maintenance of the heritage resources of Kochi. Based on the report the projects will be implemented with their technical assistance," he said. Some of the key projects proposed in the UNESCO's report include the maintenance and revitalisation of Mattanchery Street, the improvement of Fort Kochi boat jetty and bus station, renovation of Mattanchery Palace and maintenance of Kalvathy canal.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/fort-kochi-mattanchery-heritage-project-gets-nod/158085-60-122.html

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) Chairman and Managing Director R K Singh today called on Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy at his office to discuss about development projects of the company in the state to the tune of about Rs 20,000 crore.

Ports Minister K Babu was also present during the meeting. The Chief Minister was apprised of the plans to expand refining capacity of BPCL Kochi refinery by six million metric tonnes per year and its upcoming entry into petrochemicals.

Chandy promised all co-operation from the state government for the speedy implementation of BPCL projects, a BPCL press release here said. BPCL Kochi refinery, currently holding a refinery capacity of 9.5 million metric tonnes (MMT), is all set to increase it to 15.5 MMT through integrated refinery expansion project (IREP) at a cost of over Rs 13,000 crore. The project also envisages setting up of downstream petrochemical complex in the joint sector at an estimated cost of Rs 7,000 crore.

Based on the discussions with the Chief Minister, Singh also agreed to enhance its investment in the proposed Kannur international airport project.

http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/bpcl-cmd-meets-kerala-cm/720817.html

:banana::banana::banana::banana:

========================================

Kudos... 20,000 Crore Rs is something, really Great.... Kochi surely into top investment regions of India!!!!

Despite being the financial capital of the state with a resident population of 1.35 million and a floating population of 2 lakh per day, the city lacks basic conveniences like public toilets.

One of the major discomforts faced by a visitor to Kochi is the absence of hygienic public restrooms.

Though several proposals were forward by the Kochi Corporation to construct public toilets in the past, none of them materialised.
One of these such projects was the joint venture by CREDAI Kochi, Creative Team and the Corporation.

The plan was to set up 20 pay-and-use toilets in the city on a BoT basis. The project failed to take-off due to some disagreement between the Corporation and CREDAI on the maintenance period.

While residents conveniently put the blame on the Corporation, the authorities have a different story to tell.

It seems that when it comes to their locality, some Kochiites are against the idea of public toilets.

“The Corporation had planned to construct 10 public restrooms in recent months. But the plan had to be stalled as residents of the areas concerned protested saying it would be impossible for them to live near a public toilet,” claimed a Kochi Corporation employee.

However, Ernakulam District Residents Association Apex Committee (EDRAAC) president Rangadasa Prabhu said: “There have been no such protests by the residents so far. We are well aware that it is a neccessity in such a big city.”
Considering the situation, a new project for setting up of e-toilets in strategic spots has been proposed by the CREDAI.

The new toilets will be Internet-enabled and operate in a fully-automated mode, having a coin-operated entry mechanism.

“The proposal has been approved by the Kochi Corporation Town Planning Committee. We are awaiting further approval. If the proposal comes through, we are sure that the project will be a success,” said Kabeer V Haroon, Project Director, CREDAI, Kochi.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/corporation-planning-to-build-etoilets/158100-60-122.html
:banana::banana::banana::cheers:

The KSRTC can play a key role in reducing pollution in the city by introducing more city buses to various destinations, Ernakulam District Resident’s Associations Apex Council (EDRAAC) has suggested.

The transport corporation should introduce more Thiru-Kochi, and AC and non-AC low-floor buses.

It appealed to the government to operate the buses from 5 am to 11 pm. Buses plying on boat jetty-Kakkanad, Tripunithura via south railway station, Eroor-Eroor, Vytila-Vytila, Elamakkara-Elamakkara, Eda Kochi-Kodungaloor, Eda Kochi-Aluva, Fort Kochi-Kodungaloor, Fort Kochi-Aluva and Thevara-Paravur routes are in much demand.

With the introduction of these buses, many private buses operating in the sector can run on other routes. This will help in easing traffic and reducing mishaps, it said.

The Ernakulam District Resident’s Associations Apex Council has also sought more buses to the tourism zone of Fort Kochi.

The transport minister had recently said the government would take steps to further strengthen Thiru-Kochi buses that are successfully plying in the city.

Eight new AC low-floor buses would be introduced in the city shortly, he had said.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/more-lowfloor-city-buses-sought/158097-60-122.html



Transport Minister VS Sivakumar yesterday informed that the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) was planning to introduce 1000 new buses this year.

Minister added that as part of the state government's 100 day programme, the transport department would introduce several welfare schemes.

Speaking to the reporters at a press meet held here yesterday,minister said that the wages of empanel staff will be hiked. He added that shopping complexes would be built in 57 bus stations across the state. The government will take necessary steps to make KSRTC profitable which is now running at a loss of Rs 40cr a month.

Minister informed that a traffic-surveillance, regulation enforcement system will be setup at the Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi cities at an estimated cost of Rs 6.9cr.

http://www.cityjournal.in/Newspaper/20110610/Kerala/Kerala_2.html



It seems public transport in Kochi is going to get a definite shape.....

Remanika (http://www.remanika.com/index.asp) coming to Kochi
Foreseeing retail growth in 20 cities predicted to become metros by 2030, Remanika the popular women’s western wear brand is aiming to open EBOs and increasing its presence there. It also plans to sign up new properties to establish its presence in good malls in these cities. Jalaj Kakkar, CEO, Remanika Apparels believes these cities are basically waiting for organized retail infrastructure to take root and are ready to be exploited as their population will double by 2030 to 66 million from the present 33 million. The brand has plans to expand to cities like Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Jaipur, Surat, Vadodara, Indore, Bhopal, Nashik, Kochi, Coimbatore, Nagpur, Vishakapatnam, Lucknow, Kanpur, Raipur, Rajkot, Pune and Varanasi.

“We are focusing on these 20 cities at the moment apart from the metros. We have plans to open exclusive outlets at these cities. With the advent of internet, brand consciousness has increased and the consequences will be felt by the unbranded sector, who will find it tough to survive,” says Kakkar. The brand is popular for fun clothing among 16 to 35 year-old-women who include college goers, working women, home-makers and models and celebs from the fashion industry.

Remanika is among the fastest growing brands in India, growing at 40 to 50 per cent a year and aspires to grow by 60 per cent year-on-year. It has 160 outlets in 36 cities including EBOs, MBOs and large formats. With growing opportunities in smaller towns, the brand aims to get into large format stores in these cities. As Kakkar says, “We are planning to get into all large format stores to taste the depth of the fashion market in smaller cities. Logistics and supply chain were issues, but no more. However, one major challenge we as a brand face in smaller town is: finding quality or experienced staff and communication can be a problem. People may know only the local language, and not English or Hindi. But we are hopeful of overcoming these issues. Anyway, we will open EBOs at these locations. Our focus is to be Rs 100 crores company in the next two to three years.”
Source (http://www.fashionunited.in/news/fashion/remanika-targets-rs-100-cr-turnover-in-two-years-100620112120)

There was a textile store by that name, who came with a bang, introduced the 'supermarket-ish' style, made a lot of noise, and then went belly up. But other stores like Seematti and Parthas had to adapt the new mode of presentation because of them.

There was a textile store by that name, who came with a bang, introduced the 'supermarket-ish' style, made a lot of noise, and then went belly up. But other stores like Seematti and Parthas had to adapt the new mode of presentation because of them.

I remember that! and when i saw the original Remanika in Mumbai, i thought, thats the same, we had in Kochi years back, my ignorance :)

Chithrapuzha, AFAIK :)
Its Chitrapuzha.
Well, Both names are correct. The river is called Kadambrayar, and the bridge is called Chithrapuzha bridge. Actually the bridge is misnamed, because AFAIK, chitrapuzha is a tributary of the river. In fact the bridge near KRL is also named chitrapuzha bridge, causing confusion.

Thanks for the info. :)

You call what, Chennai or Delhi... I am more worried about 200 crore per Km cost. Is it really feasible in Kochi? When we have alternatives to build 50crore km as monorail, I wonder why we embrace such high cost- more time consuming systems?

Arun, In Delhi, land acquisition was least, as most of the passes through Government lands or underground. The roads in Delhi are so wider that land acquisition are lowest.

This is not situation in Kochi. We find opposition from ordinary households, even to increase road width. So how acquisition happens involving the powerful business lobby? This means, acquisition costs will prove more costlier.

Lets keep politics at bay and see whether things move in Delhi or not. And even if a political decision comes, lets see how its going to be more of social reality.

I cannot agree with the mono rail system as if you consider a Kochi after 20 years, Monorail wont be sufficient. Now it may seem okay. Another thing is about land. I understand the entire stretch of Metro is elevated and it's pillars will be on the road divider. So it will not need any additional space. Space will be mainly required where there will be stations.
Ofcourse, there will be traffic woes till construction is over. But if the authorities have proper planning and traffic control measures it can be eased a lot. Every day I see the Delhi Metro system here, it is the biggest mode of transport here now.
Also some are having doubts about the ridership. Similar doubts were raised when AC low floor busese were introduced in Kochi. Now you see they are highly successful in Kochi.
Let's hope the Kochi metro will be a similar success story

I cannot agree with the mono rail system as if you consider a Kochi after 20 years, Monorail wont be sufficient. Now it may seem okay. Another thing is about land. I understand the entire stretch of Metro is elevated and it's pillars will be on the road divider. So it will not need any additional space. Space will be mainly required where there will be stations.
Ofcourse, there will be traffic woes till construction is over. But if the authorities have proper planning and traffic control measures it can be eased a lot. Every day I see the Delhi Metro system here, it is the biggest mode of transport here now.
Also some are having doubts about the ridership. Similar doubts were raised when AC low floor busese were introduced in Kochi. Now you see they are highly successful in Kochi.
Let's hope the Kochi metro will be a similar success story

See friend,

We live in a country, which do not think about a condition prevailing for past 20 years. In such a situation, how can we think, we embrace for a system considering 20 years after?

Yes, 20 years after, even metro won't be sufficient to solve the traffic woes. So forget about Monorail.... But the issue, we are waiting for past 10 years, just to get an approval without any sign of progress. And again we have to wait for another 5 to 7 years, even if approval gets today, for Metro to become reality. That means, there is always an opportunity cost and time value attached to this lost 15 years......

10 years back, the Metro was costing just 1200 crore... Today it touched near 4500 crore and by time of implementation, it may touch 6000 crore....

Its here my questions come forefront

1. Are we trying to invest this amount just for one 30 km stretch.
2. Are we still keeping MG Road, Aluva and Petta as our priority center even after 10 years? Isn't it time to close the existing CBD and redevelop new avenues?

Monorails doesn't mean cost effective alone. Perhaps, its investment cost is less, but when compared to Cost Per person per KM, its sometimes triple than Metro. But the advantage is that, atleast it can be implemented today, rather than waiting for another 10 years... Its just like telling, a 300 crore Cochin Airport in 1999 was 100 times better than 3000 crore Bangalore airport in 2006.


Regarding profits, no metro in this world barring Hong Kong MRTS, is profitable.... Even Delhi Metro is somehow managing to post a wafer thin operational profit, but completely off-set by other expenses. None of the metros in the world are meant for profits alone. It has some other multipler benefits, may be pollution, fuel economy, shorter travel time, reshaping urban spheres, development of real-estate and many things like that.... The question here, without a ridership survey, we are not able to assess the cost per km, that each person has to spend. Do you think, is it viable to see a cost figure like Rs 40 per km.... Hence there are multiple questions evolving, especially when the costs keep on escalating.

what is the construction going on next to BMW showroom , is it office project? or hotel ...., its relatively big , but nothingf displayed on consstruction site..

Its proved... Ommen Chandy Govt just donot make announcements, but also act. Within 48 hours, since announcement of 2 major projects for Kochi, the Atlantis Overbridge Land acquisition and Maradu Drinking water plant, the Govt of Kerala released a sum of 59 crores to the concerned project funds.

The GOK, ordered to release the funds without any delay and subsequently funds now reached Corporation project accounts. Now its all upto Corporation to act and use the opporunity to the full extent.

The news was confirmed by Kochi Mayor, thro' his FB account

http://www.facebook.com/notes/tony-chammany/development-projects/216745891689867

To the people crying about cost escalation: Cost of EVERYTHING has increased, and so did govt revenue. We are running inflation at 8+%, and you are seeing the effect. Nothing to worry about.

It's not me who is confused rather you as it is evident from the bunch of contradictions in your earlier quotes.
I only suggested a new development in the history which seems plausible and seems like it pissed you off.

And it's not my theory as I'm not an historian, you are trying to disprove, but studies done recently. You also don't have any conclusive proof about the Chinese yet you try to sound authoritarian on this matter. Pathetic I must say:nuts:

It seems you are bit confused. Where did I say, Portuguese had no influence in Kollam. Ofcourse, it was their strong hold in Travancore region? My question was if it was Portuguese invention, it should have been uniform in 4 major strongholds, Kannur, Kochi, Kollam and Goa. Kochi served as capital of Portuguese India only for 15 years and their association with Kochi was not as smooth as it was in Kollam or Kannur, primarily because of 3 major raids of Zamorin...........

So if I got with your theory, these nets must be seen in places where Portuguese had its strongholds. Unfortunately barring Kochi region and its south, we donot see much.




I was not going into language origin thread. All I was replying to your query, how come the Portuguese name struck.... If I got with your arguments, just because these above words originated from Portuguese, it means it was brought by Portuguese......

Malayalees had table, chairs, walldrobes as well as Toilets even during Chera times..... Just because the portuguese word Kakkoos became popular, it doesn't mean toilets was brought in from Lisbon to Kerala.....


Its equally possible, the Portuguese influenced local population, particularly the Latin catholics who formed the majority in Kochi and Kollam, adopted several latin words for things which they used previously......



Did I said so?



I just wish to know, what are you trying to prove? Chinese fishing nets, are brought in by Portuguese, not Chinese? And you gave a thought of usage of Portuguese words used in the technique?

I personally cannot subscribe to this theory, just because its not yet recognized by historians and historical records. Perhaps more research and more solid evidences in future may support the thought... But as per current information thats available with us, yes its a Chinese Invention... Probably the South East Chinese Butterfly Trap style.... And Chinese had an extensive trading interests with Kochi, perhaps which even gave the name Kochi.....

Life is nothing original... Everything is influenced from someone others..... Adaption is key word, which helped Human race to move forward... We adopted Chinese style roofings in Kerala, yet took Tamil influences of apsidal structure.... So there is nothing wrong...

It's not me who is confused rather you as it is evident from the bunch of contradictions in your earlier quotes.
I only suggested a new development in the history which seems plausible and seems like it pissed you off.

And it's not my theory as I'm not an historian, you are trying to disprove, but studies done recently. You also don't have any conclusive proof about the Chinese yet you try to sound authoritarian on this matter. Pathetic I must say:nuts:

I am not confused anyway. But I appreciate your contribution, as it was new thought which our historians can work on for more research. I didn't contradict myself, but can't help your confusions. I couldn't accept your one liner thought, simply because of certain terminologies used in the Nets. Yes, I accept, its not your theory, but unless its done in proper scientific way and approved by authoritative agencies, any studies cannot be scientifically accepted, rather remain as mere thoughts, which one cannot relay much on.

Perhaps, more studies in future, may give better light and its highly premature draw any conclusion, just because an one liner theory was proposed.

Thanks

^^Can we have the History class in Cochin Discussions thread?

^^Can we have the History class in Cochin Discussions thread?

I quit from further discussions... What else more to discuss... Sure.. next time, we must think this

Marking the beginning of preparatory works of Kochi Metro Rail project, the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has handed over Manappattiparambu for the initial works of reconstruction of the North railway overbridge (ROB).

At a programme held on Friday, GCDA Secretary George Vallakkalil handed over the land to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).
The DMRC will use the 2.8 acre land for casting girders and also for storing the machines for the reconstruction. The machines will be brought to Manappattiparambu on Saturday.

On Monday, the land owned by the KSRTC will be handed over to the DMRC. It will be used for facilitating the construction works of the flyover on Salim Rajan road.

The flyover connecting Salim Rajan road and Mullassery canal road will help ease the traffic in the city to some extent. City Police Commissioner Ajith Kumar has submitted the suggestions regarding the traffic regulations in the backdrop of the construction works.

According to the suggestions, the bylanes in the city should be repaired and the traffic should be diverted through them.

On June 17, Excise Minister K Babu will convene a meeting of all the parties concerned to discuss the traffic regulations and rehabilitation of the traders to be evicted from the premises of ROB. DMRC Project Director P Sreeram has handed over the design of the metro rail to the District Collector.

The first phase of the works is expected to be complete within 18 months. It was in March, 2011 that the state government sanctioned the funds for the preparatory works.

Union Minister of State for Food and Civil Supplies K V Thomas, Mayor Tony Chammany, Hibi Eden MLA and District Collector P I Sheik Pareedh were also present on the occasion.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kochi-metro-rail-gcda-hands-over-land-to-dmrc/158438-60-122.html

With the Kochi Corporation and the Piravom municipality authorities reaching a consensus over digging up of roads for laying pipes for the Maradu Water Treatment Plant project, the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) is hopeful of completing the project within a year. It was in a meeting convened by Water Resources Minister P J Jospeh in Kochi on Friday that the representatives from both the local bodies agreed to implement the project as per the original plan.
The Rs 201-crore water treatment plant project was in a standstill as the Piravom municipality authorities hesitated to give sanction to dig up the bit uminised concrete road.

In the meeting, the Minister asked the Kochi Corporation authorities to make sure that the restoration charges were fully paid.

"The digging up of roads should be done on per kilometre basis and it would be the responsibility of the Kochi Corporation to ensure that the road is restored properly after laying the pipes."

"The pipe-laying work will start in August and will be completed within four months," P J Joseph said.

He said that the speedy completion of the project is important to Kochi as the plant with a capacity to treat 100 million litres of water a day (mld) is expected to solve the potable water crisis of Kochi and the neighbouring municipalities, including Maradu.

Regarding the alternative route proposed by the Piravom municipality, the Minister said that the feasible study conducted by the Kerala water Authority (KWA) shows that the recurring charges will be high if the Corporation opts for the new route.

"So the project needs to be implemented as per the original plan," the Minister said.

In his reply, Mayor Tony Chammany said that the Corporation had already paid Rs 1.5 crore as restoration charges. "The rest of the amount will be paid prior to the commencement of the work," the Mayor said.

Public Works Minister V K Ibrahimkunju, MLAs from the district and the representatives of the local bodies were also present during the meeting.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/corporation-municipality-reach-consensus/158434-60-122.html

In a major step to revive the canal system in the city by making them navigable, a new project—'Water Metro'—has been suggested by the state government. Talking on the sidelines of the meeting held here on Friday, Water Resources Minister P J Joseph said that if the Kochi Corporation is willing to handover the major canals under it to the Irrigation Department, the state will take necessary steps to implement the project.

"The canal system in the city is a part of its heritage. It is well connected and can serve all the major needs of society, including transportation, communication, irrigation and drainage.

As per the Water Metro project, five major canals, including Thevara-Perandoor Canal and Tripunithura-Edappally Canal, will be renovated so as to make them navigable. I have already suggested this to the Mayor and he told me that the issue needs to be discussed in the Corporation Council meeting," said Joseph.

He said that if the Corporation Council decides to handover the canals to the Irrigation Department, a feasibility study will be conducted to analyse the practical side of the Water Metro project.

Apart from the Water Metro project, the department would also commence the work of the Seaport-Airport waterway within 100 days, the Minister said.
"As the channel of transport for the Seaport-Airport waterway project includes potable water sources, a detailed analysis has already been done on the environmental impact.

The project was initiated only after ensuring that it is eco-friendly," he said.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/navigating-the-water-metro/158436-60-122.html

===================================

Good move!!! Finally some senses prevailed for our Government. Water Metro is something which Kochi really strong enough!!! Good start:banana::banana::banana:

Irrigation/ Water Resources Minister P.J Joseph announced the 100 days task plan. It seems Kochi gets maximum benefit out to the scheme. Some of the key plans for Kochi are

1. Announcement of Kochi Water Metro, connecting 5 major canals with rapid water transport option, irrigation and drainage

2. Construction of Nedumbassery-Kochi (Airport-Seaport) waterway would be taken up in two months and completed in 20 months, for faster water transport between Airport and Seaport.

3. Construction of water supply scheme projects at Cherthala, Karukutty-Mookkannur, Vazhakkulam- Kizhakkambalam- Kunnathunadu.

4. Bottling Plant at Piravom or Chottanikara (depending upon on availability of land) for supply of packed bottled water

5. Thotapilly-Ernakulam Sea erosion check, with help of Stone piers, instead of conventional sea walls
:banana::banana::banana:

Minister for Water Resources P.J. Joseph said at a press meet here on Friday that initial work on the airport-seaport waterway project would be taken up as part of the State government's plan to implement various projects in the district within 100 days. An initial amount of Rs. 107 crore has been earmarked for the waterway.

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/11/images/2011061167270301.jpg

The project would be part of establishing a water transport system in the city. Mr. Joseph said that if the Kochi Corporation handed over the five canals marked for inland waterways to the State, his department would clean up and make them navigable. The Thevara-Perandoor and Tripunithura-Edappally canals are among them.

The Minister said that the environmental impact study on the airport-seaport waterway had been done and it would not pollute the drinking water source that would be the main route of the waterway. He was speaking after conducting a meeting on improving the infrastructural facilities in the district, with a focus on water supply.

Maradu project

Among the various ongoing projects in the district, work on the Rs. 210-crore Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission project at Maradu that would augment water supply to the city would begin by August and would be completed in a year. The State Cabinet has set aside Rs. 11 crore for land acquisition for various projects. Most of the hurdles to the project were resolved at the meeting. The work had been in limbo for quite some time as the issue of digging the road where pipelines had to be laid from Piravom to Mulanthuruthy had stalled the project because of objection from the local people. Work would be taken up for laying pipelines 1 km at a time from each end, said that Minister. The people would have to bear some inconvenience for some time, Mr. Joseph said.

The problem of leakages in old pipelines in Tripunithura would be resolved by laying new pipelines on the Vaikom road up to 5 km. The Rs. 31-crore project for water supply to Infopark from Tripunithura would be considered as the company was willing to contribute towards it, he said.

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/11/stories/2011061167270300.htm

See friend,


Its here my questions come forefront

1. Are we trying to invest this amount just for one 30 km stretch.
2. Are we still keeping MG Road, Aluva and Petta as our priority center even after 10 years? Isn't it time to close the existing CBD and redevelop new avenues?

Monorails doesn't mean cost effective alone. Perhaps, its investment cost is less, but when compared to Cost Per person per KM, its sometimes triple than Metro. But the advantage is that, atleast it can be implemented today, rather than waiting for another 10 years... Its just like telling, a 300 crore Cochin Airport in 1999 was 100 times better than 3000 crore Bangalore airport in 2006.


Regarding profits, no metro in this world barring Hong Kong MRTS, is profitable.... Even Delhi Metro is somehow managing to post a wafer thin operational profit, but completely off-set by other expenses. None of the metros in the world are meant for profits alone. It has some other multipler benefits, may be pollution, fuel economy, shorter travel time, reshaping urban spheres, development of real-estate and many things like that.... The question here, without a ridership survey, we are not able to assess the cost per km, that each person has to spend. Do you think, is it viable to see a cost figure like Rs 40 per km.... Hence there are multiple questions evolving, especially when the costs keep on escalating.

You mean to say if it is Monrail, it will be started immediately and if it is Metro it will take another 10 years!!!,
Monorail or Metro you require a strong political bargaining to get it to Kochi. So i see a hope that Chandy, Antony and co could finally bring it as it is a prestige issue for them.
You see when Ram Vilas Paswan, Lalu, Nitheesh Kumar and Mamata were railway ministers, they did more than required for their home states. Where was the statistics and economics gone?
In India, if you need to get a mega project , you need a strong political bargaining, statistics and economics doesn't matter. If they do, they must be applicable for UP,Bihar, Bengal, Tamil Nadu also, and not when we from Kerala go for approving a project.

Also, on keeping MG road as priority center, they have surveyed the route where they get maximum people. But this should not stop there.
We can think of Phase-2 and Phase-3 covering other areas including Airport,Kakkanad, Fort Kochi, Aroor etc later

x-post from KochiNow

http://img833.imageshack.us/img833/9366/kochimay2011149large.jpg

http://img805.imageshack.us/img805/7130/kochimay2011148large.jpg

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/7028/kochimay2011142large.jpg

http://img842.imageshack.us/img842/255/kochimay2011147large.jpg

Before entering the NH47 at Kalamassery Flyover

http://img847.imageshack.us/img847/9916/kochimay2011151large.jpg

x-post from KochiNow

http://img853.imageshack.us/img853/2051/kochimay2011131large.jpg

http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/4631/kochimay2011134large.jpg

http://img851.imageshack.us/img851/6748/kochimay2011140large.jpg

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/7028/kochimay2011142large.jpg

http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/6108/kochimay2011144large.jpg

http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/2148/kochimay2011146large.jpg

You mean to say if it is Monrail, it will be started immediately and if it is Metro it will take another 10 years!!!,

If effectively planned, systematically implemented and have some honest bureaucrat at helm of affairs, Monorail is definitely have the advantage of less time consuming. It can be constructed within 24 months, whereas even in most idealist conditions, a metro requires 4 to 5 years.

Its just like saying, Cochin Airport was constructed with 30 months including Land acquisition, whereas Bangalore airport took more than 7 years to construct..... Same that Cochin State Railways took less than 15 months to complete Cochin Nilambur railway line in early 20th century, whereas its taking past 25 years for Sabari railway line even to draw a blue print......

Monorail or Metro you require a strong political bargaining to get it to Kochi. So i see a hope that Chandy, Antony and co could finally bring it as it is a prestige issue for them.
You see when Ram Vilas Paswan, Lalu, Nitheesh Kumar and Mamata were railway ministers, they did more than required for their home states. Where was the statistics and economics gone?

Do we have that level of baragining power? Yes, we have strong soft power in Delhi, comprising of Malayalee Bureaucrats and ministers... But no hard bargining power like Lalu or Nitheesh or Mamata or Kalangiar in Delhi. So there is a difference.

In India, if you need to get a mega project , you need a strong political bargaining, statistics and economics doesn't matter. If they do, they must be applicable for UP,Bihar, Bengal, Tamil Nadu also, and not when we from Kerala go for approving a project.

Hope you understand the time difference between hard bargain power and soft power!!!!


Also, on keeping MG road as priority center, they have surveyed the route where they get maximum people. But this should not stop there.
We can think of Phase-2 and Phase-3 covering other areas including Airport,Kakkanad, Fort Kochi, Aroor etc later

It shows the level of foresightness. In 1920, maximum people lived in Mattancherry and the main business road for Ernakulam was Chitoor Road. If Cochin planners that time, decided to pamper Chitoor road and Mattancherry, we would today know how would be our condition?

Instead, they abandon Chitoor road and Mattancherry, to build a MG Road and Willingdon island, so that today we breath space..... If we donot do this for our tomorrow's generations, surely our grand children will curse us for the grave harm we does for them!!!!

MG Road is choking and breathing for some space. Our action is to bring in more people from here and there to that aling space!!! Rather its time to use Metro to develop other spaces, so that MG Road can breath some space and continue somewhere in history!!! Else sooner or later, we will converting this stretch into another Mattancherry kind of slum with population explosion!!!

And its already 10 years over for one line!!! So when can we expect for second and third line? And till that time, are we keeping up MG Road as main road? Its high time to take away the CBD tag from that road forever and close it for further business development.... I hope we are not recreating another Broadway!!!

Two Metro preparatory infra projects starts

North RoB rebuilding and Salim Rajan flyover works start this week :cheers

Hope Kacheripady-North four lane widening which is part of the work will be taken up too immediately

Kochi Metro will run in 4 years time :cheers:
GXLq3I-QP6E


GTDTdsK8kBg
Courtesy: PLUS on KOCHINOW

Vallarpadom highway will be the next target for builders after Kundanoor - edapally stretch .... This one is even more scenic ...

its only matter of time beforfe skyscrpers starts mushrooming alongside...

Vallarpadom highway will be the next target for builders after Kundanoor - edapally stretch .... This one is even more scenic ...

its only matter of time beforfe skyscrpers starts mushrooming alongside...

Before land mafia takes over the scenic backwaters overlooking stretch, the port authority must convert it into a beautiful park cum walkway stretch. A city doesn't mean skyscraper alone. It should have some beautiful parks and gardens, where its citizens can unwind in evenings. Hope the Port will do something

Vallarpadom highway will be the next target for builders after Kundanoor - edapally stretch .... This one is even more scenic ...

its only matter of time beforfe skyscrpers starts mushrooming alongside...

Yesterday got a chance to drive through this road.. wow man its awesome!!!:). but I dont want skyscrapers to dot this stretch. it will kill the scenic beauty of this place:ohno:

Yesterday got a chance to drive through this road.. wow man its awesome!!!:). but I dont want skyscrapers to dot this stretch. it will kill the scenic beauty of this place:ohno:

its inevitable , am sure builders would hv made land banks there..

its inevitable , am sure builders would hv made land banks there..

Its fine if they consider nature along with development!

An airport acting as an engine of growth
http://www.hindu.com/pp/2011/06/11/images/2011061150260101.jpg

The Nedumbassery airport has done much to bring modern commercial advances to Kochi, in tandem with another gateway, the seaport, which, some kilometres away, had raised the profile of the city much earlier.

The greenfield airport set up by Cochin International Airport Ltd., in a first public-private partnership to build civil aviation infrastructure, has benefited immensely from its close connections to the commercial hub of Kerala. The synergy has opened an ideal ground for real estate development in places around the airport.

The airport is strategically located with easy access to the National highways 47, 17, and 49. The main railway line connecting the south and north of the country lies adjacent to the airport. Nedumbasserry comes between the Aluva and the Angamaly railway stations.

As a vital link in international trade, travel, and tourism, Nedumbasserry offers bright prospects for real estate investors, says Hormise Issac, marketing head, Kochi, SFS Homes, which has taken up residential projects in the area. One of its ongoing projects, with over 120 units, will be completed within a few months. Another project, a few kilometres from the airport, has been completed.

Land available

“Constraints in land availability, experienced while taking up projects elsewhere in Kerala, are not felt in Nedumbasserry. The roads are wide. The situation proves ideal for converting the airport area into an epicentre of development. In fact, airport cities across the world have been growth centres, more so in the case of Nedumbasserry. With a few economic zones having been approved, big players are expected to launch mega ventures in the days ahead,” he says.

Real estate investments at Nedumbasserry can be considered an ever-appreciating investment, he adds. The company's apartments near the Desam junction, on the way to the airport, can be utilised as homes or holiday homes, at less than half an hour's drive to the SmartCity project area and in the vicinity of educational centres and institutions such as the Cochin University of Science and Technology.

“With a boom in airport-based commercial and tourism activities, a severe shortage of hotel rooms is being experienced at Nedumbasserry,” C.S. Bijumon, general manager of Flairalliance Infrastructure and Hospitalities Private Ltd., says. Once the international exhibition centre, an ongoing project of the airport company, is completed, more hotel rooms will be required. The shortage will be in the order of 1,000 rooms within two years. Business travellers prefer to stay close to the airport for convenient check-ins, he says.

The company has launched a four-star hotel suite project on the airport main road. The project, with 140 suites, aims to benefit from an unprecedented growth in air travel. Investors are being promised handsome monthly returns.

“There are many business-class air travellers in Kochi who fly out of the city in the morning and return by evening. The project will cater to their needs,” he says.

A golf course being developed by the airport company has elicited more response than was expected, with many people vying to join it, despite the limited membership offered, at present.

ABC Group, setting up villas on the airport-Kalady road, about 3 km from the airport, is optimistic of the project. The location is a hotspot of future development, a company representative says. With projects such as an aircraft maintenance hangar, a trade-cum-exhibition centre, an industrial park, and a multi-specialty hospital coming up, the place has immense scope for development as a real estate destination.

With more international and domestic flights carrying more passengers than ever, the airport promises to be a non-stop venture in terms of adopting development projects. Aerotropolis is a dream project conceptualised by the airport company. The ambitious project envisages development of around 450 acres of land around the airport. An aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul facility, star hotels, a logistics centre, an amusement park, and a cultural village will be among the components of the project, apart from an expanded golf course and exhibition centre.

An academy offering management education in aviation and allied sectors has started functioning. The CIAL Academy offers programmes in aviation management and technology, in association with the Indira Gandhi National Open University. The academy has plans to introduce more programmes. Similar initiatives can be expected from several other projects in the aerotropolis, which means an ever-widening base for the airport, bringing in a truly golden era for Nedumbasserry and nearby areas.

The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/pp/2011/06/11/stories/2011061150260100.htm)

Yesterday got a chance to drive through this road.. wow man its awesome!!!:). but I dont want skyscrapers to dot this stretch. it will kill the scenic beauty of this place:ohno:

That stretch of Vallarpadam Highway has blown me away! I dont think it will be converted into a completely built-up area like the Bypass or S-A Road. There are waterbodies on both sides of the road for long stretches which would ideally make a good candidate for a leisure boulevard as someone said above. Cochin needs such avenues as well, not just wide highways with 20+, 30+ highrises on both sides.

DKS, thanks for posting those pics. :)

^^Credit goes to user Arun Mathew at KochiNow forums. I just re-posted them here, because that user seems to be not active here.

That stretch of Vallarpadam Highway has blown me away! I dont think it will be converted into a completely built-up area like the Bypass or S-A Road. There are waterbodies on both sides of the road for long stretches which would ideally make a good candidate for a leisure boulevard as someone said above. Cochin needs such avenues as well, not just wide highways with 20+, 30+ highrises on both sides.

DKS, thanks for posting those pics. :)

That's exactly my point. Please don't make that stretch another concrete jungle. Kochi needs some green space also.

K.V Thomas announced a few new projects for Kochi, after discussing with Railways ministry.

1. Tripunithara-Kalamasserry railway stretch to be widen and developed more better.
2. A feasibility study for new line between Vytila-Kalamaserry would be conducted soon.
3. Kalamaserry station would be developed into a major station with exclusive steel handling facility
4. 20 crore will be alloted for development works for 3 stations- Ernakulam South, Tripunithara and Kalamaserry.
5. Small stations like Edappally, Kumbalam, Nettoor etc would be upgraded with better facilities for upcoming MEMU services
6. Kollam-Kochi Memu will commence soon

Kudos:banana::banana::banana: I wish K.V Thomas becoming Railway minister........ But wonders how come he announced railway projects?

The regional transport department would propose an electronic test track in Kochi as implemented in Bangalore and Hyderabad if land is allotted by the government, revealed officials.

The regional transport office has identified three places for setting up test tracks in the city. The department has put forth a request on the availability of land to the government.

“The places identified are 1.5 acres of land near Edappally, around 20 acres of land near HMT at Kalamassery, and 3 acres at Moolampilly,” said deputy transport commissioner of Central Ernakulam Zone P.A. Sainudeen.

“We’ve got funds from the government. If land is made available, a test track can be easily set up. We expect action from government soon,” Mr Sainudeen said.

Electronic test tracks at Bangalore and Hyderabad facilitate testing for providing driving licenses without the need of personnel. Those who appear for the test can drive the vehicle monitored by electronic sensors, and a report is generated instantly, along with a CD that contains recording of the driving performed by the applicant.

Presently, driving tests and fitness tests are being conducted by the regional transport department on busy roads near city outskirts due to the lack of space. By getting a track, this problem can be avoided, transport officials said.

Building an electronic test track with two tracks for two wheelers and five tracks for four wheelers costs Rs 1.6 crore.

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/kochi/driving-test-get-easier-soon-040

:banana::banana::banana::banana:

The Mattanchery sub-jail has made a mark as being the country’s first prison house to provide a mosquito-free environment to its inmates.
With mosquito nets attached to every window on the campus, the sub-jail provides a healthy environment to both visitors and inmates, whose cells have also been made mosquito-free.

“Being able to make a prison complex completely mosquito-free in not an easy task in a city like Kochi,” says former Jail Superintendent P P Varghese, under whose guidance the project became such a success. The sub-jail, housing 100 inmates - 10 per each cell - is awaiting an ISO accreditation. In the process, it has achieved many of the standards required to receive the ISO tag.

The concrete flooring of the compound has been replaced with tiles. “The living conditions of the inmates have improved, especially now that all the cells have tiled floors, good ventilation facilities and bathrooms,” Varghese says. For a prison that houses dreaded criminals booked for offences such as murder, rape, drug abuse etc., the atmosphere is well-disciplined. Jail Superintendent KA Balakrishnan says, “The Mattanchery sub-jail has a history of housing notorious criminals, most of whom belong to the city. A lot of effort is taken to create law and order in the jail. If the authorities coordinate with and treat the prisoners properly, such an environment could be easily achieved.” In fact, some criminals find the atmosphere so good that they commit offences just in order to be housed in the jail. “Sometimes the criminals who are remanded by the court request us not to release them that early,” Balakrishnan says.

There are two categories of the people housed in the sub-jail. “Some belong to poor sections of society where families live in one-roomed houses. They come here in desperation for shelter. Others usually belong to rich families and are jailed for drug addiction and other crimes,” he says.

Recreational facilities too have been provided to the inmates. They have access to a big library of books on history and literature, and Malayalam newspapers. “But special emphasis on education and training cannot be provided to the inmates like other ISO-accredited jails, because some of these prisoners would be housed here only for a day. Besides maintaining the physical fitness of inmates is also a problem because there is not enough space for such programmes in the jail,” Balakrishnan rues. Their menu consists of chappati and curry for breakfast, rice and fish or meat for lunch, and tapioca or rice for dinner. An inmate, who has been housed here for some months, says he likes the atmosphere of the jail and they are treated properly by the jail authorities. Balakrishnan says that it was possible to make such favourable conditions in every jail, provided that there is a willingness to incorporate the necessary standards needed for the inmates to live.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/mattanchery-subjail-creates-history/159003-60-122.html

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Thats going to good.... So it can try to woo more politicians there.... Ippol 5 star ayyille!!!!:lol::lol::lol:

Thats going to good.... So it can try to woo more politicians there.... Ippol 5 star ayyille!!!!:lol::lol::lol:

Manager of Marriott: "Ithu valiya chathiyaayi poyi" :lol:

K.V Thomas announced a few new projects for Kochi, after discussing with Railways ministry.

1. Tripunithara-Kalamasserry railway stretch to be widen and developed more better.
2. A feasibility study for new line between Vytila-Kalamaserry would be conducted soon.
3. Kalamaserry station would be developed into a major station with exclusive steel handling facility
4. 20 crore will be alloted for development works for 3 stations- Ernakulam South, Tripunithara and Kalamaserry.
5. Small stations like Edappally, Kumbalam, Nettoor etc would be upgraded with better facilities for upcoming MEMU services
6. Kollam-Kochi Memu will commence soon

Kudos:banana::banana::banana: I wish K.V Thomas becoming Railway minister........ But wonders how come he announced railway projects?

Me too was surprised to see Agriculture minister publicly sanctioning Railway projects! :nuts:

Anyway glad that a number of projects, on a big scale, is sanctioned in a day :banana:

Hi i am new to this and this is a test message

Hi i am new to this and this is a test message

Welcome to Kochi, Nice to meet U :)

Kalamasery Flyover
http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/3686/kochimay2011152large.jpg

http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/1107/kochimay2011171large.jpg

http://img805.imageshack.us/img805/9916/kochimay2011151large.jpg
Courtesy: Arun Mathew

Alwaye Flyover U/C
http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/8555/kochimay2011154large.jpg

http://img861.imageshack.us/img861/7623/kochimay2011156large.jpg
Courtesy: Arun Mathew - Kochi Now

Manorama print edition today reports that the Aluva flyover is 'unofficially' open

Manorama print edition today reports that the Aluva flyover is 'unofficially' open

http://img846.imageshack.us/img846/7285/aluva.jpg

Source: ManoramaOnline (http://epaper.manoramaonline.com/edaily/flashclient/client_panel.aspx)

Airport-Seaport Road to be extended
KOCHI: The Roads and Bridges Development Corporation of Kerala (RBDCK) is readying itself to begin work on phase two of the Airport-Seaport Road project.

In this, a four-lane road would be built from HMT Junction up to the airport – a distance of 15 kms.

This was decided at a meeting held here on Monday, chaired by the Corporation's MD, M. Beena. The existing 13-km portion begins at Irumpanam and ends at HMT Junction. Around 100 hectares of land would be acquired for the four-lane extension, which would run parallel to NH 47 in some places. “Two bridges would be built in the initial phase, across River Periyar. For this, we are probing the possibility of availing loan from NABARD. The existing two-lane stretch from Irumpanam to HMT Junction would be widened into four-lane, using State Government funds. Ultimately, the road would bypass the NH 47.”

Though land to four-lane the existing stretch is available, some more land would have to be acquired to straighten sharp curves which are accident prone.

The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/14/stories/2011061453210300.htm)

Railway stations in city suburbs to be developed
http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/14/images/2011061461710301.jpg

KOCHI: Railway stations in the suburbs of Kochi city would be developed, so that more trains can have halts there, thus decongesting city roads and the two railway stations in the city.

Addressing mediapersons here on Monday, Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs K. V. Thomas said that Rs. 20 crore would be spent to spruce up the Ernakulam Junction and Town stations, and the stations at Edapally, Tripunithura and Kalamassery.

“The main platform at Kalamassery would be extended up to 700-metres, so that 45 wagon goods trains can be loaded/unloaded here with steel and cement. Talks are on with the Naval Armament Depot (NAD) to acquire some land from them,” he said.

Though recent railway budgets had promised to upgrade the Ernakulam Junction and Town stations to international standards, little work was done.

Mr. Thomas said that a medical college has been planned at the now-unused Ernakulam Railway Goods yard behind the High Court, which has also been envisaged as a hub for suburban-train/MEMU – mainline electrical multiple unit services. :banana:

The Harbour Terminus railway station in Wellingdon Island would be developed and converted into a heritage station and the city-island railway line electrified so that passenger trains can call at the station.

Overbridges

Overbridges have been planned at level-crossings in Eroor and Pachalam.

Though people had demanded an overbridge at Netoor, it was dropped since sufficient numbers of vehicles were not crossing the track.

The Railway and Corporation of Kochi would jointly constitute a technical committee to prevent water logging on railway tracks and also to ensure the upkeep/modification of narrow railway culverts that cause water-logging in the western parts of the city.

“A 300-metre-long railway track from the Ernakulam South overbridge up to the Junction station too would be raised,” said George John, Ernakulam Area Manager of the Railway.

Ticket counter

A satellite ticket counter would be opened at Kakkanad on July 30, so that passengers can reserve tickets from there, instead of commuting to major stations.

The ticket counter and the Nedumbassery railway station (for which foundation was laid over a year ago) are yet to get the nod from the Railway Board.

The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/14/stories/2011061461710300.htm)

Airport-Seaport Road to be extended

Thats a good news.... I have a question- since the port shifted from Willingdon island to Vallarpadom, why should Seaport-Airport connect to Willingdon Island in its third phase as concevied originally?

It can be redeveloped to connect to NH 17A which is Container Road, so that it actually becomes Airport-Seaport road.....

I also believe, because Beena is heading RBCK, I wish, she fastly consider two major corridors

1. Thamman-Pullepady road, with its extensions to Kakkanad

2. Pipeline Road, so it can completely decongest Edappally-Aluva stretch and improve real estate in vast areas of between CUSAT and Aluva

All the best Beena

The seaport-airport moniker is just a name. It connects neither, and even if it does, that particular feature serves no useful purpose. It actually serves as a bypass to NH-47/NH-49, and also links the developing eastern side.

What is there in connecting the seaport to airport? Does cargo or passengers travel between them?

The seaport-airport moniker is just a name. It connects neither, and even if it does, that particular feature serves no useful purpose. It actually serves as a bypass to NH-47/NH-49, and also links the developing eastern side.

What is there in connecting the seaport to airport? Does cargo or passengers travel between them?

I wonder why the name? Seaport-Airport road is a big name, too difficult to pronounce it too.... I think, its better to name it after K.Karunakaran, who have done a lot for Kochi.

Perhaps, if planned carefully, this road can be redeveloped in form of inner-Ring road by connecting with Container road and NH 49 A

Benny Behanan, MLA, has clarity of thought when it comes to development of his newly-formed-constituency Thrikkakara.

He neatly divides his priorities into six – SmartCity Kochi, infrastructure to raise Thrikkakara into a future Information Technology city, road infrastructure, and solutions to water logging, drinking water scarcity, and waste management.

“Implementation of the proposed SmartCity Kochi at the earliest is without doubt the top most priority,” Mr. Behanan told The Hindu on Saturday. He said that he had discussed it with Chief Minister Oommen Chandy who was equally determined to see the fruition of the project without any further delay.

The construction of the Rs. 1,500-crore project on 246 acres at Edachira near Kakkanad, which proposed to create 90,000 jobs over 10 years, was originally conceived during the tenure of the previous UDF government.

Drawing up a farsighted plan for infrastructure development to elevate Thrikkakara to the standards of an IT city is also high on his priorities.

Thrikkakara is home to many retired professionals whose expertise can be utilised to formulate such a plan, Mr. Behanan said.

He said that effective management of various canals is the solution to the water logging experienced in many parts of Thrikkakara.

The Corporation, which manages these canals at present, does not have enough funds for their proper upkeep.

These canals should be de-clogged and dredged to enhance their depth facilitating smooth draining out of water. “Inland navigation department can be roped in as it will solve the problem of funds,” Mr. Behanan felt.

He said that a Rs. 10-crore proposal for the rejuvenation of the Edappally Canal had been submitted to the Chief Minister and the Public Works Minister.

He called for a similar proposal for the Karanakodam Canal. The scope for availing of Central funds should also be explored, he said.

As for the drinking water issue, Mr. Behanan said that it can be resolved through the timely implementation of various existing schemes by removing the technical difficulties delaying their progress.

He had submitted to the State government for inclusion in the budget a Rs. 44-crore proposal for linking the Pulleppady-Thammanam Road with the Seaport-Airport Road.

He had also taken up with the Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs K. V. Thomas the case of four flyovers at Edappally, Palarivattom, Vytilla, and Kundanoor junctions, which he felt would resolve the traffic problems of the city to a large extent.

Mr. Behanan called for a two-pronged approach besides extensive awareness campaigns to resolve the longstanding issue of waste management in Thrikkakara. On a broader scale, the State government and the Corporation should plan waste treatment plants, he said.

“In the meantime, small treatment units should be made mandatory in all flats. Agencies like CREDAI (Confederation of Real Estate Developers' Associations of India) are already extending assistance in this regard,” Mr. Behanan said.

Mr. Behanan is determined to leave a legacy far important than the one of being the first elected representative of Thrikkakara Assembly constituency.

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/14/stories/2011061461180300.htm

The Ernakulam district committee of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has reiterated its stance that the conversion of the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) into an Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST) is undesirable.

Reacting to reports that the government has initiated steps to accelerate the process of upgrading the university into an IIEST, Gopi Kottamurickal, district secretary of the party, told The Hindu that the move will not help in ensuring the overall development of the university. Stating that the district committee of the party had earlier conveyed its stance based on the feedback received from teachers and syndicate members affiliated to the Left, Mr. Kottamurickal said that experts had stressed that the thrust of an IIEST will be on engineering education.

Several teachers on the campus had said that the departments under the Faculty of Science, Social Science, Humanities and Law will be at peril once the university is upgraded into an IIEST. They also mentioned that there was no guarantee that the institution would be a public-funded one after the 11th Plan.

It is learnt that the syndicate members having Left affiliation would step up pressure against the move to upgrade Cusat. They will bring this issue to the notice of Opposition Leader V. S. Achuthandanan.

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/14/stories/2011061454660500.htm



Though I hate discussing politics, this news forces me to discuss a bit... Its for first time, I am seeing a political party saying, we don't want UPGRADATION. When will they realize the folly they are doing.......

CUSAT was once-upon-a-time a top university in India, all lost because of this attitude of few politicians... Still some departments like Naval architecture, Photonoics , Laser dept are the only units that keep this University somewhere in rankings......

Now they want to halt any development. IIEST is a major initiative that will raise the rank of this university to larger global sphere.... I fail to understand whom they are trying to save?

Perhaps the only arguement I find valid is

Several teachers on the campus had said that the departments under the Faculty of Science, Social Science, Humanities and Law will be at peril

Yes, its a valid point. But this can be resolved, if these exisiting schools can be merged together to form another University as Cochin University of Social Sciences..... Perhaps South India's first Management school- SMS, which once ranked almost equal to IIMs lost its glory, only because of its association with Political CUSAT..... This can be redeveloped, if SMS upgraded into an independent university- Kerala Management University, the first Business studies university with NO AFFILIATION system

And remaining units with IISET, which is more logical and appropriate.

I don't know who invented the name "seaport-airport road". When I moved to USA in 2001, it was Irumbanam-Kalamassery road. When I came on leave in 2003, RBDCK had been formed, the road was re-paved, renamed and the irumbanam overbridge added. Yes, it would be the first of the three ring roads, if developed properly. I sure hope it happens.

If Benny Behanan does just two things within his term, that alone would justify his election. 1) The second artery to Kakkanad, ie Chakkaraparambu-Chitethukara highway. 2) Flyovers at Edapally, Palarivattom and Vytila.

There is something to cheer about for the people hassled by the pollution of Vembanad lake as Rs 10 crore has been sanctioned immediately for the restoration and regeneration of the lake, starting with desilting, sewage treatment, and pollution control. This directly benefits people living in Ernakulam, Alapuzha, Kottayam and Thrissur districts.

“A master-plan is being prepared and discussions are on with the World Bank at the UNDP for a $20-million grant, which would be approximately Rs 90 crore,” said the Minister.

A similar assistance of Rs 5 crore has been set apart for the conservation of the Sasthamcotta lake, 70 percent of which will come from the Centre and the rest from the State Government. A request for relaxation of the coastal regulation zones (CRZs) for the housing needs of the traditional fisherfolk population from the State Government has been answered with the instituting of 50 scholarships for the children of fishermen for graduate or post-graduate studies in an area related to coastal zone management (CZM) such as marine engineering, fisheries, zoology and so on.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/rs-10-crore-sanctioned-to-restore-vembanad-lake/159284-60-116.html

The flyover on the National Highway in Aluva was partially opened following the public protest. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) had promised that the construction of the `25- crore flyover from Pulinchode to Marthanda Varma Bridge in Aluva would be completed by April 15, 2011. But it was delayed indefinitely.

Meanwhile, the service roads parallel to the NH through which the vehicles were diverted to facilitate the construction of the flyover are in a bad shape now. With the onset of a rainy season, the potholes and the water logging on the service roads on either sides of the flyover have made the vehicular traffic almost impossible. The traffic congestion on these roads could be eased only when the construction of the 860 meter-long flyover was completed. But the local people allege that the plea for the speedy completion of the flyover has fallen on deaf ears.

Several youth organisations have also launched agitation demanding the speedy completion of the construction of the flyover. The agitators also demanded to repair the service roads. The Youth Congress had demanded that the bridge be partially opened for traffic till the completion of the repair of service roads. Following the stir, in the conciliatory talks the NHAI authorities agreed to open one way of the flyover on a temporary basis. Going by the decision arrieved at the meet, the western side of the flyover has been opened for public and the vehicular traffic began on Monday.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/aluva-flyover-on-nh-partially-opened/159245-60-122.html

I wonder why the name? Seaport-Airport road is a big name, too difficult to pronounce it too.... I think, its better to name it after K.Karunakaran, who have done a lot for Kochi.

Perhaps, if planned carefully, this road can be redeveloped in form of inner-Ring road by connecting with Container road and NH 49 A

Considering the role of K Karunakaran in the development of the airport,phase-1 of seaport -airport road,bye pass etc it would be appropriate to name the seaport-airport road after him and later it will become KK Road.

The for consideration of projects for environmental clearance in Greater Cochin area has been lifted.

While lifting the ban, the Union Ministry of Environment and Forest has also prescribed seven steps including monitoring of pollution indexes by the Central and State Pollution Control boards for reducing pollution in the area.

Besides Great Cochin area, the ban on the critically polluted areas of Bhadravati and Mangalore of Karnataka has been lifted in the latest instalment.

The Ministry had slapped the ban in the critically polluted industrial cluster of the State along with a few others in different parts of the country in January 2010 following a Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI) prepared by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Later, the Ministry lifted the ban in some clusters after considering the pollution mitigation measures initiated by the State boards.

The moratorium had affected the growth prospectus of a large number of industrial units in Kochi including the expansion plans of some public sector companies and also the setting up of new ones.

The Union Ministry has directed the CPCB and the State Pollution Control Boards to immediately post the pollution mitigation action plans in their areas on their respective websites. The State Boards will monitor the implementation of the plans and the schedule.

The Central board was asked to develop a monitoring mechanism for overseeing the implementation of action plans and also carry out random checks on the environmental parameters for their quality.

The results of these inspections will have to be posted on the website.

The Ministry has also cautioned that the moratorium will be reimposed if the pollution levels in the areas exceed limit. Periodic monitoring of the levels by independent agencies has also been suggested. According to K. Sajeevan, chairman of the Kerala State Pollution Control Board, all the major industries in the cluster have been asked to form a computer network. This is to enable online access and monitoring of mitigation measures and other related details, he said.

The Kerala Board has formed a local-level committee headed by its member secretary for monitoring the pollution situation in the cluster.

A Common Effluent Treatment Plant has to be set up and the Kerala Water Authority has to take care of the sewage treatment as part of the pollution alleviation measures.

The pollution level in the cluster has come down considerably following the introduction of the mitigation measures, Mr. Sajeevan said.

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/15/stories/2011061561980100.htm

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Great Move!!! I am sure, many new projects planned which was halted due to this, will now start!!!!:banana::banana::banana:

The laying of modernised pipes in the pumping lines to strengthen the water supply network in the city will begin by next month. The tender for the replacement of old pipes in three major pumping lines has already been allotted at an estimated cost of Rs 10.4 crore.

The modernisation work is a part of the water supply project envisaged under the Kerala Sustainable Urban Development Project (KSUDP). "The majority of pipes laid for pumping are old. These age-old cement pipes cannot withstand the optimum pressure required for water to reach long distances so they have to be replaced," said a Corporation official. He said that as per the modernisation of the water supply network, the old pipes will be replaced with 700 mm ductile iron (DI) pipes. The work has been awarded to Viswanathan, an independent contractor. "The pipes have already been purchased. Of the three works, initially the old pipes on the stretch between Palarivattom and Thammanam Ananthapuri temple will be replaced with DI pipes," he said.

The official said that the work of the second major pipeline from Perumanoor pump house to Thevara Junction will be the second major work.
"Another work that will be carried out is the renovation of the existing pipeline from Elamkulam to Pandarachira. The work will cover a total of 2-km-stretch. Here the old cement pipes will be replaced with 300 mm high density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes," he said.

The term of the contract is 12 months and the official said that the work is expected to be completed within the stipulated time. "Once modernised, the new pipes are expected to offer more stability to the water supply network and will help reduce cases related to pipe bursts that affect the water supply," he said.

Meanwhile, another project under the KSUDP for the renovation of the Aluva Water Treatment Plant is yet to gather momentum.

The Rs 14.3-crore project includes renovation of the pumping head, replacement of old pump sets and filter media and construction of an underground water sump pump.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/pumping-lines-to-be-strengthened/159486-60-122.html

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Ever since Chandy came to power, so many projects for Kochi soon revived!!! This is second major water supply announced within a week!!! Good going
:banana::banana::banana:

ZptedLw-K0I

2nd phase of Airport-Seaport to start soon. The Seaport-Airport will be converted into 4 lane from Kalamassery-Airport. .The RBDCK( road and bridges development corporation of kerala) is gearing up for the purpose,and the decision came from the meeting held on monday chaired by corporation MD, M.Beena.The Key features are going to be

1. The plan is to get a four lane expasion from HMT junction to airport.which will be a 15 kilometres in length

2. Around 100 hectares of land needs to be acquired for the four lane road, which runs parallel to the NH 47 at some places. Land to be acquired already identified and ready to be awarded.

3. Two bridges also to be built across river Periyar at Aluva on the initial phase itself. RBDCK is availing a loan from NABARD for the same.

4. Slight change of realignment at Cochin Airport, as original proposal is to intersect at Airport Road, where new Golf Course came up. Hence slight realignment required at CIAL.

5. The Seaport- Airport road would connect to Thammam-Pullepady Road for direct access from City to Airport/Seaport. This is to reduce traffic congestion at exisiting NH

6. Total cost estimated at 372 crore, including bridges.

7. In addition, 5 crore will be spend for complete retarring and surfacing for existing phase one road from Irupanam to Kalamasery. Curves would be rectified.

Under the Vision 2020 plan, the Indian Railways has decided to complete its most ambitious high-speed corridor project.

While a feasibility study of the proposed high-speed passenger train corridors at six places across the country is being carried out at identified places, the railways is keen to accelerate the pace of development work now. The railways intends to run high-speed passenger trains at 200-250 kmph. Currently, trains run at the maximum speed of 160 kmph on the Delhi-Bhopal route.

The railways has already identified these places located on the Delhi-Chandigarh, Pune-Mumbai-Ahmedabad, Hyderabad-Vijawada-Chennai, Howrah-Haldia, Chennai-Bangalore-Coimbatore- Ernakulam and Delhi-Agra-Lucknow-Varanasi-Patna sections. The feasibility study is being taken up on cost-sharing basis with the governments in these states.


According to a former technical expert of the railways, G N Sahay, the proposed high-speed passenger train corridors have become inevitable for the railways to keep pace with air services. "Countries like Turkey and Morocco are well set to introduce high-speed corridor passenger trains soon. The Indian Railways must not lag behind now," he said.


Sahay said it would provide an alternative mode of communication to passengers at a time when the cost of travelling by air and train is more or less the same in AC first class .Besides, it would be the fastest journey by trains in the country, he said .


According to Sahay, the railways initially intends to develop a stretch of about 2000 km as the high-speed corridor in the country. The railways proposes to build elevated corridors at those points where fencing on tracks is not feasible on high-speed corridor routes. The Patna-New Delhi route could be converted into a high-speed corridor. Tracks have been replaced all along the route. The present track condition is conducive to run high-speed trains on the Patna-New Delhi route. However, the railways needs to improve signalling system on this particular route, he said.


According to Sahay, the Indian Railways has the largest network in the country. Introduction of high-speed passenger trains on the pattern of foreign counties would fill railway coffers as elite class passengers would prefer to undertake journey safely by such high-speed trains.


"The project will be directly monitored by the High Speed Authority in the country to expedite fast development of the network," he said.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/Railways-working-on-high-speed-corridor-project/articleshow/8856548.cms

Kerala government decides to form a new company for Kochi Metro. The new company- Kochi Metro Limited will be a SPV for carrying out metro works

While Tom Jose will be the Managing Director (by virtue of special officer), CM will be the Chairman. 4 ministers will be members

Welcome Kochi Metro Limited!!!

For the development of railway in the district, a budget of 20 crore rupees has been sanctioned. The decision was taken during the meeting which was held on the guest house in Ernakulam in the presence of Minister K.V. Thomas, Mayor, public representatives and officials of the railway authority etc. The stations at Ernakulam South, North, Edappally, Kalamassery, Tripunithara, Kureekaad, Cochin Harbor, Nettoor, Kumabalam etc. are included in the renovation process.
http://www.cochinsquare.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Ernakulam_railway-station.jpg
As the North over bridge is under construction for the Metro rail project, more trains will halt at the Tripunithura and Edappally stations and renovation will be carried out in both the stations before hand. Overbridges will be constructed at Thripunithara and Eroor also. Moreover, Pachalam also requires a railway overnridge and the collective efforts of the state government and the corporation will lead to its construction. Also, efforts will be there to convert Willingdon island to a heritage station as per the current decision. With the completion of the electricity works, the railway at Willingdon island will start its work. In order to rectify the stagnant water accumulation problems in the track, the track within the area of the north and south stations will be raised at a height of 23cm.

Satellite stations will start to function from July 30th in the Collectorate in order to book the train tickets. With these developments in the railway sector, it is assured that the citizens can enjoy better facilities in their railway journey!

http://www.cochinsquare.com/railway-stations-in-the-city-are-getting-a-new-face/

Great updates Mohammed, keep them coming :cheers:

Great updates Mohammed, keep them coming :cheers:

Perhaps, if this corporation makes a proper masterplan, with support of this current government which respects Kochi its deserving share, rather than mere milch cow as done previously, they can do some wonders....

For example, Ernakulam South, North etc cannot hold any new key for development, because its inside the CBD and further development, will break it.

I think, K.V Thomas and other people who has strong interest in Kochi's development have identified the urgent need for a Rail byepass from Tripunithara to Kalamassery with a halt at Vytilla. So if proper development approach is taken, Vytila must be developed as Ernakulam Central, while keeping ERS, ERN, CHTS etc are line stations or stations for Memu services, while long distance trains to use Tripunithara, Vytila and Kalamassery.

The mobility hub at Vytila, metro stations at Petta, Kalamassery will help passengers to reach other parts of city.

Lets wait and see how things shape up. RAILWAYS have very bad history in helping Kochi (Kerala as whole also).They still failed to make ERS world class.

Water Metro - Documents handed over to Irrigation Department
KOCHI: Inching a step closer to the dream of implementing the ‘Water Metro’ project, the Kochi Corporation authorities on Wednesday expressed their willingness to hand over major canals in the city to the Irrigation Department.
Kochi Mayor Tony Chammany, along with standing committee chairmen T K Ashraf and R Thyagarajan, handed over the copy of the minutes in which the Corporation Council’s consent is recorded, to Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and Water Resources Minister P J Joseph.
The request letter to the Irrigation Department to take over the canals for revival was also handed over to them. The civic body’s decision in this regard came after Joseph announced here last week that if the Kochi Corporation is willing to hand over the major canals under it to the Irrigation Department, the state will take necessary steps to implement the ‘Water Metro’ project.
The project mainly aims at revamping and modernising the canal system in the city by making them navigable.
The Mayor told Express that the Chief Minister who backed the prestigious project had promised him that the project would be included in this year’s state budget.
“The project, if executed properly, will surely be a blessing to the city. It will not only help improve the transportation, communication and irrigation sectors, but will also help address the issue of waterlogging in the city to a major extent,” Chammany said.
As per the ‘Water Metro’ project, five major canals in the city, including Thevara- Perandoor Canal and Tripunithura- Edappally Canal will be renovated to make them navigable.

Indian Express (http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/documents-handed-over-to-irrigation-department/284746.html)

The Irrigation Department has agreed to de-silt seven major canals and strengthen its retaining walls to ensure that floodwaters are drained to Kochi backwaters. These include the Thevara-Perandur, Edapally, Karanakodam, Pandarachal, Pashnithodu, Pallichal, and Changadampokku canals. The move has come as a blessing for the cash-strapped Kochi Corporation, which decided to hand over the responsibility to the Irrigation Department along with a request from the civic body to the Irrigation Minister P. J. Joseph on Wednesday at Thiruvananthapuram.

De-silting

According to Kochi Corporation Mayor Tony Chammany, who was part of the delegation which met the Minister, the de-silting of the Thevara canal alone would cost Rs.75 lakh a year for the civic body.

Most of the time, it will not be possible for the civic body to clean these seven canals in one year considering the cost involved, he said.

The Mayor said that the corporation can save considerable portion of its fund as it would require at least Rs.7 crore a year for the civic body to clean these canals.

The cost of maintaining the retaining walls will also require a considerable amount, he said.

Water metro

The Minister shared his vision of developing a water metro for Kochi by making these canals navigable and ensured budgetary support for the project, said Mr. Chammany.

Copies of the representation along with the corporation council resolution on the issue were presented to Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Finance Minister K. M. Mani, Excise Minister K. Babu and Industries Minister P. K. Kunhalikutty.

The delegation also included Dominic Presentation and Benny Behannan, MLAs, and T. K. Ashraf and R. Thyagarajan, Standing Committee chairpersons of the civic body.

Cleaning the canals: Good
Taking them away from corporation: Good
Running boats through them: Fine
Claiming it as a solution to traffic woes: Wrong.

Cleaning the canals: Good
Taking them away from corporation: Good
Running boats through them: Fine
Claiming it as a solution to traffic woes: Wrong.

I didn't understand...... Why boats to some extend resolve traffic issues? Whats ur opinions?

Boats will work when they offer a viable alternate to buses, like the routes across the lake. But they are not a viable solution in most of the canal routes. For example, consider the Thevara-Perandoor canal. A ride on the boat is going to take a lot of time, even with the traffic blocks, than a bus. That is the problem.

Boats will work when they offer a viable alternate to buses, like the routes across the lake. But they are not a viable solution in most of the canal routes. For example, consider the Thevara-Perandoor canal. A ride on the boat is going to take a lot of time, even with the traffic blocks, than a bus. That is the problem.

Time will come, when that will be the fastest, cheapest and environment friendly transport mode.

As of now, i feel its tourism! :)

Boats will work when they offer a viable alternate to buses, like the routes across the lake. But they are not a viable solution in most of the canal routes. For example, consider the Thevara-Perandoor canal. A ride on the boat is going to take a lot of time, even with the traffic blocks, than a bus. That is the problem.

But there is no other traffic other than one or two boat at a time. Definitely there cannot be a congestion in canal...... I don't know what kind of boats they are planning. Modern boats as what we see Amsterdam or Dubai means, its atleast 10 times faster than any buses. however if planning the traditional olden boats, yes, then its true what you said

If we look, Thevera-Perandoor canal passes thro' most of the city's busy areas, hence it can help to get enough passenger patronage.

If we look, a boat from Vytilla to Infopark may take less than 10-15 mins, whereas a person living in Vytilla may require around 30 to 40 mins to reach infopark, after travelling all the way around the city roads.

Apart from tourism, regular plying of boats, keeps the issue of green alage away and avoid these canals becoming mosquito farms.....

If the new company that manages Water Metro, studies the pattern of Amsterdam or Venice or Dubai Water taxi models and patterns, surely Kochi will able to decongest to great extend

^^

The issue is that a person travelling to Inforpark, or Kakkanad or say, Vytilla, got to get another mode of transport from the jetties planned in these places!

So unless we have a feeder system where people do not tend to lose money for extra travel, the win-win % of this experiment is doubtful.

Firstly, the speed boats can't ply the canals. You need to use the regular slow boats in the canals. Then there is the question of the 'last mile' access. Of course, if someone is going to Infopark itself, you can land at the Infopark Jetty. But for someone going to, say Vazhakkala, only bus works.

Firstly, the speed boats can't ply the canals. You need to use the regular slow boats in the canals. Then there is the question of the 'last mile' access. Of course, if someone is going to Infopark itself, you can land at the Infopark Jetty. But for someone going to, say Vazhakkala, only bus works.

Speed boats do ply in Amsterdam canals, which are like ours.... Perhaps may be modified version. Such kind of motorized Abras (water taxies) ply in artifical created Marina and Dubai Burj Khalifa city apart from the main creek.

The issue is large amount of silt deposited in canals for past long time, which is real hindrance for plying such boats. I think, they have started desliting process

Yes, the boats donot connect to each and every place. That even Metro does not. We need ferry, as one of the alternate public transport, not the single and one/only transport option.

Buses are very much required as a feeder alternative for these kind of public transport. I strongly believe, to a greater extend, it can reduce congestion, in buses and improve public transportation.

The hydrofoils can ply only wider bodies of water. the narrow canals can take only slower boats. It is a matter of physics. You can't control a fast craft within the confines of the canal, and also, it will cause huge waves in the canal.

Kerala CM Ommen Chandy announced issuance of Rs 30 crore for urgent desilting process and erection of canal walls of Kochi. The proposal of Water-Metro and formation of new company etc will be mentioned in the upcoming budget. Irrigation minister have already mentioned the details of project as part of his ministry's 100 days program.

All illegal encroachments on sides of Thevera-Perandoor canal will be cleared to the maximum.

http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/localContentView.do?tabId=16&programId=1079897613&contentId=9510665&district=Cochin&BV_ID=@@@&townName=&villageName=

The hydrofoils can ply only wider bodies of water. the narrow canals can take only slower boats. It is a matter of physics. You can't control a fast craft within the confines of the canal, and also, it will cause huge waves in the canal.

I think, they have widening programs planned up... Lets hope for the best

Before getting those, we should retire all those grandmothers Komala Kumari and co plying the ferries, and replace them with decent fast ferry boats.

Another Happy News

Kochi tourists have more reasons to be happy now. The Goshree Island Development Authority (GIDA) and the Tourism department are launching a super luxury boat service connecting Willington Island, Vyppin, Mattancherry and Fortkochi. And this shall come into being very soon. A huge sum of 3.8 crores has been already set apart for this project.

The authorities also plan to construct walkways on these islands. This can add to the style and splendour of this whole idea of luxury boats for tourists. Along with walking around and enjoying the splendour of Kochi’s scenic marvels, the tourists can make the most of the tranquil mood well. The authorities have also ensured that they shall build a commercial space at Willington Island that shall host offices.

The expert team (who shall help in furthering the project) shall visit the places soon and give out their take on this. And the first trial ship shall be launched soon. Officials have promised that once that is a success, more of them shall be introduced. Tourists can now enjoy Kochi in this heavenly luxury air conditioned cruise, in style! Perfect!

http://www.kochivibe.com/kochi-we-are-getting-a-luxury-cruise-boat/

:banana::banana::banana:

Waterway linking airport and seaport to augment trade (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/17/stories/2011061763080300.htm)


Rs.107 crore earmarked to develop the 49.5-km-long route

CIAL first airport in the country to get a direct link with a major seaport

The waterway will open up many tourism opportunities

Nedumbassery: The Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) plan to set up a cargo village on its property received a fillip with the government giving its nod to the long-pending proposal to connect the airport and the seaport through a waterway. The government has earmarked an initial amount of Rs.107 crore for developing the route.

CIAL will be the first airport in the country to get a direct link with a major seaport. According to a senior official in the company, the proposal presents an opportunity for the company to evolve itself as a major cargo station by incorporating a multi-model transport system linking air, land, and waterways.

The 49.5-km-long waterway from seaport to airport is divided into three stretches — seaport to Eloor, from Eloor to Kanjoor and from Kanjoor to the airport. The 23-km-long first stretch is already part of the National Waterway 3, and does not require improvement.

The 26-km-long stretch from Eloor to Kanjoor through Periyar would need some upgradation work like deepening the shallow portions and installing concrete guide posts.

The final and the most important part is the 500-metre-long stretch through Chengalthodu, which is silted up by tributary of Periyar.

An environment impact study by the government reveals that the development of the route would not pollute the drinking water source.

The proposal envisages re-distributing consignments. Cargoes from foreign country is brought here by air and then taken to the final destination on a different aircraft. The incoming cargoes could also be transferred to seat containers and brought to the seaport for its onward journey.

“The upcoming railway station will provide easy access for outbound cargoes even from the far- away places while the waterway will ensure a cost-effective shipment of these consignments between the two stations,” the company official said.

The state- of the-art Centre for Perishable Cargo and the parking bay for two wide-bodied cargo aircraft on the airside of the cargo complex gives the airport an advantage in acting as an international transshipment terminal.

Another official pointed out to the tremendous tourism opportunities the waterway would open up by enabling passenger traffic. “A cruise along the route will be a great experience for those arriving to visit the State,” he said.

With Kochi fast emerging to be a prime cruise destination, the airport-seaport linkage is also expected to play a key role in developing the activity of` cruise exchange' and help CIAL in expand its revenue.


I think an integrated cargo concept might work. Tourism also might work, but a regular passenger service have no scope.

Anyway, I can't figure a mode of cargo where it comes in by air, and then goes to the port and gets shipped by boat.

Waterway linking airport and seaport to augment trade (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/17/stories/2011061763080300.htm)



I think an integrated cargo concept might work. Tourism also might work, but a regular passenger service have no scope.

Anyway, I can't figure a mode of cargo where it comes in by air, and then goes to the port and gets shipped by boat.

I too doubt on the cargo mode between Port and airport. Because even road traffic between these two is almost nil. In India, domestic Air cargo haven't fully developed, or be to on right side its in stage of infancy. Hence the model of trans-shipping cargo consignments via air and moving to Vallarpadom trans-shipment terminal is OVER-AMBITIOUS which may not work at all

But I believe passenger service can work well. The public City-Airport transport transfer is currently least under-developed with just 4 Volvos. It may take another 1 to 2 years for Airport-Railway station to come up. Rail metro may take another 4 to 5 years, if gets approved. Hence a water metro would be ideal second option as public transfer.

A large portion of Cochin Airport users are tourists who travels directly to Fort Kochi. A direct water route between Airport and Fort Kochi means, it provides best traffic free alternative.

Lets hope for the best

Kochi gets a major boost in 100 days Action plan announced by PWD Minister.

1. 2nd Phase of Airport-Seaport road will be initiated and converted fully into a 4 lane and two 4 lane bridges. The total cost, including land acquisition will account around 600 crore

2. Works for District Planning Secretariat at Thrikakkara would be completed

3. New Venduthuruthy Bridge will be commissioned soon

4. Kunnukara Mini Civil station will be commissioned

:banana::banana::banana:

http://www.mathrubhumi.com/story.php?id=193741

http://www.gulf-times.com/site/topics/article.asp?cu_no=2&item_no=441455&version=1&template_id=40&parent_id=22

http://i54.tinypic.com/2z59fs5.jpg

http://i56.tinypic.com/2hclt1j.jpg

I am also not convinced about the movement of cargo between a port and airport. Port handles mostly containers and airport deals with lesser quantity of materials, how these two can be combined unless there is unloading the container and repacking and sending by air .Where and for what purpose?? I really doubt the scope of this water cargo concept but definitely it will be beneficial from a tourism point of view .

http://2323

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/article_horizontal/article-images/c_1.jpg.crop_display.jpg

A cremation ground, in fact, is the best place on earth to meditate.

King Daksha may not have understood his son-in-law Lord Shiva who meditated there. Yet, we've a few left among us, who've the courage to explore its possibilities.

The crematorium at Thrikkakkara which would soon be renovated only confirms this truth.

The renovated one will stand apart from others because its design has been inspired by a spiritual quest. Shaped in the form of a foetus, it's been conceived and designed by world renowned architect Gurjit Matharoo.

Matharoo, in fact, has specialized in crematorium designs.

“The Ashwini crematorium designed by him in Surat is world famous. We wanted to have something unique and hence sought his design,” chairman Thrikkakkara Crematorium Trust, Georgekutty Kariyanappally says.

A person becomes unwanted the moment death overpowers him. This is what the Ivor Madom issue and its fallout show.

Georgekutty Kariyanappally who has done extensive research on cremation issues in a state where land comes at a premium says hi-tech crematoriums alone will solve the problem.

“We need secular crematorium-cum-funeral homes. In their absence, we’ll face issues similar to Ivor Madom,” he affirms.

Gerogekutty had been working tirelessly for such a crematorium. He cleared the first hurdle last year when Thrikkakkara panchayat allotted him over 80 cents. “It’s here that we plan to set up the foetus-shaped crematorium-cum-funeral home. It’ll be the first such facility in the country and is designed by Gurjit Matharoo”, he says.

The unique project comes under Thrikkakkara Crematorium Trust of which Georgekutty is the chairman.

“Those interested can join us as members. We want to convert this into a people’s movement”, says Georgekutty.

“Kochi is a city of apartments. But, many of them don’t have service lifts. So, if a resident of 13th floor dies in hospital there’s no other go but to keep the body in the car park”, he says.

It’s here that the concept of funeral home becomes important. “You’ll find it only in Europe where bodies are immediately moved to funeral homes. Ours is a similar effort”, he says.

“We’ve 12 crematoriums in the city. Yet, except three, others either lack in hygiene or efficiency”, Georgekutty says.

The Thrikkakkara project would be environment friendly as it would use coconut, cashew-nut shells and wooden logs with LPG as substitute. It can take three bodies in one go.

The crematorium-cum-funeral home will have three separate halls, meant for Hindus, Muslims and Christians.

“If a Christian wants to be cremated on death, he can obtain permission from the bishop. We’ll launch a massive campaign asking Christian community members to make use of this law”, he says.

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/kochi/unique-funeral-home-kochi-118

Roads that enter into Kochi

Cross posted from Indian Highway Photos thread.

IMAGE COURTESY:- Southernman



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The trial run of the lighting of the modernised streetlights by the Kochi Corporation will be held next week. The civic body has already completed the work of installing advanced LED and induction lamps on the 2-km-stretch between Shenoys and South Junction. It is for the first time that streetlights enhanced with modern techniques, including Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), are being installed in the state.

A top official from the Kochi Corporation said that a six-month monitoring phase is included in the pilot project. Based on the results, the programme will be extended to other parts of the city. At present, zodium vapour, metal halide and CF lamps are being used to light the city streets. "The new lamps are expected to bring down energy consumption by 50 percent. The automatic switching system is yet another advantage. After setting the timer it will automatically get switched on and off. More than that, the durability and quality of light give them a clear edge over energy-deficient incandescent light bulbs," said the official.

He also said that a separate metre will be attached to the lamps to mark the reading so as to know how much power is consumed by them. "At present the Corporation is paying Rs 4 crore annually to the Kerala State Electricity Board as electricity charges on streetlights. The new system is expected to cut down the electricity charges up to 50 percent," the official said.

The maintenance and repair of these lamps are technology-driven and is easy. If any of these lamps are damaged, the Mayor, town planning officials and the contractor who has undertaken the maintenance contract can be alerted through an SMS. The SMS should have the number of the electric post to help repair the lamp in a time-bound manner.

The implementation of the pilot project is entrusted with a private agency. The agency is hopeful of launching the pilot project next week.

http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/led-lamps-to-light-up-city/285384.html

:banana::banana::banana::banana:

Roads and Bridges Development Corporation of Kerala (RBDCK) MD Beena IAS, announced urgent works for Ponnurunni ROB. She indicated that the ROB would be completed within a year and included in the list of ROBs to be completed by November 2012.

RBDCK also took over Atlantis ROB scheduled for completion by first quarter of next year 2012. The corporation and revenue department will start LA by once the rain gets over by August. The Atlantis ROB is part of Kochi Metro preparatory works and prerequisite before pulling down South ROB.

http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/13-rail-overbridges-to-be-completed-by-2012/285499.html

http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/a-financial-boost-for-atlantis-rob-project/282390.html

can anybody tell me how to post the pictures on this thread

^^^^

You have to use some photo sharing sites like imageshack.us or photobucket etc where you have to upload it there and copy the url to here under Insert Image icon in message box or type the url between

Air shuttle service to connect coastal airports
NEDUMBASSERY: Top priority will be given to launch an air shuttle service connecting the coastal airports in South India, Union Minister for Civil Aviation Vayalar Ravi has said.
The Minister was inaugurating the regional celebrations of the Centenary of Civil Aviation in India at the Kochi International Airport here.
Stating that the Civil Aviation Ministry is planning to improve air connectivity and helicopter service in India, Ravi said steps have already been taken to have a route map for helicopter services.
Stressing that more airports would be launched if sufficient land is provided, the Minister promised that he was committed to extending all support to the construction of the Kannur airport.
On Air India, he said the airlines was passing through a turbulent period with heavy debts. Huge arrears to oil companies have disrupted the fuel supply, he said.
The Minister said that the ministry was committed to financially enabling Air India to come out of the red.
Urgent steps should be introduced to improve the quality of management, planning and cost-cutting measures in Air India, he said.
He urged the employees to cooperate to improve the national carrier. He praised the functioning of the Kochi International Airport, saying that the first airport in India, under public-private-participation (PPP), has proved a unique and successful endeavour.
He also presented a memento and a citation in recognition of the outstanding contributions to conceiving and implementing a world-class airport under PPP in Nedumbassery.
Presiding over the function, Minister for Ports and Airports K Babu said that the state government was committed to improving the coastal and inter-district air connectivity.
He urged Ravi to introduce a high-speed rail corridor from Delhi to Kanyakumari.
Welcoming the gathering, CIAL managing director V J Kurien said that the CIAL, a project which was launched with Rs 300 crores, is making a profit of Rs 100 crore annually.
Celebration committee chairman C G Krishnadas Nair said the Kochi Airport would touch an incredible 50 million passenger movement in 2020.
Free entry to airport
As part of the centenary celebrations, the public would be allowed free access to the airport viewers gallery from June 19 to 26.
School students will be allowed to enter the airport terminal and viewers gallery for one week beginning Sunday, Kurien said.

Indian Express (http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/air-shuttle-service-to-connect-coastal-airports/285815.html)

Manappuram to open Diagnostic Centre

Gold loan company Manappuram will foray into healthcare in September(MA Care (http://manappuramhealthcareltd.com/index.php)) with the opening of Hi-end diagnostic centre in Kochi.

The facility, which will be the most modern & largest in the state, is to come up in Kaloor @ an investment of Rs. 20Crore. The construction of which is on the final stages @ Kathrikadavu.

The group is also planning to open Hi-Tech hospitals, Dental clinics in South Indian cities with an investment of Rs. 1000Cr in the next five years.
Manorama (http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?contentId=9528196&programId=1073753761&tabId=0&BV_ID=@@@)

What is the status of HDIL Cybercity, Nest Electronic City and Infopark Phase II? What is the progress of work?

Airport - Kochi waterway
The construction of the proposed CIAL - High Court waterway will commence in a week. The project is expected to complete in 18 months.

CIAL has offered to Rs. 3Crore assistance to the project, while govt. have contacted BPCL & other firms for funds. The total project cost is Rs. 50 Crore.

Madhyamam (http://www.madhyamam.com/news/89971/110619)

Two Low Floor Volvo A/C Buses were alloted for Kochi-Kalady services, to service people living in North eastern suburbs. Two services ply each day.

The first bus would ply from Ernakulam at 6:50 am to reach Kalady at 8:20 am via Cochin Airport. The bus would return at 8:35 am to reach Ernakulam at 10:10 am. The second bus would ply from Fort Kochi at 2:30 pm to reach Kalady at 4:50 pm and return at 5:15 pm to reach back at 7:40 pm.

The service is introduced as part of 2nd Bus Day celebrations scheduled on 22nd June 2011.

http://kochigallan.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/BusDayKochi-300x129.jpg

Kochi to celebrate 2nd Bus Day of Year 2011 on 22-June-2011. The Bus Days are celebrated to promote public transport usage awareness in the city. This time, private companies will join its hand by encouraging employees to use the service. The Private Bus operators Association announced a special fare on the day, by allowing all passengers to travel unlimited for Rs 5, in Vytilla-Vytilla Circular route.

The Bus Day is another fad, just like the other fads I used to crib about.

It is valid for communities where public transport is under utilized and most of the people use cars. We have a public transport system that is way over crowded. It is like prescribing a no-fat diet for a kid that has 'grahani'!

The Bus Day is another fad, just like the other fads I used to crib about.

It is valid for communities where public transport is under utilized and most of the people use cars. We have a public transport system that is way over crowded. It is like prescribing a no-fat diet for a kid that has 'grahani'!

True.... Kochi's public transport has not yet full developed. There is a shortage of 50 to 60 buses in the city and the majority dominated by red-killers.

Permits are devised as per 1980s or 1990s standards... Things have changed a lot in 2000s. We require more permits and more bus services. Apart from this ferry and rail transport has to be equally developed.

The problem with public transport is that we donot have any proper auxiliary/support units to support public transport. For example, how many loves to wait under hot sun or rains for more than 30 to 40 minutes to get a A/c Bus ride. We donot have proper bus shelters. Most of the existing are in shambles. Those who afford to pay Rs 40 or 50 for a ride, also demand a fair bus shelter.

Forget A/C service alone. Even those who pay Rs 5 for a ride, also has a right of shelter to protect from rain and sun. If we wish to ask a car-owner to forgo his personal comfort and afford all discomforts for bus ride, does that make any sense?

What Kochi requires

1. Proper large bus shelter under an uniform design
2. Better bus services both govt and private
3. Proper parking spaces near bus bays and stations, so that people can park and ride bus
4. Loyalty E-Wallet cards like Nol cards used in Dubai RTA bus
5. Monthly/Seasonal pass with discounts
6. Increased bus routes with more low-floor buses
7. Promotion of ferry/water transport

Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSDIC) has identified nine centres for distribution of compressed natural gas (CNG) along the gas pipeline being planned between Kochi and Bangalore via Coimbatore.

These distribution centres will be developed with a view to meeting the natural gas need from the road transport sector, which is expected to switch substantially to the cleaner and cheaper energy source in the future.

Land identification on

Identification of land for the CNG stations between Kochi and Palakkad was in progress, sources said here. They said the expected expansion of the LNG terminal in Kochi to 15 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) from the present five MMTPA and completion of the gas pipeline would coincide with buoyant demand for natural gas from the road transport sector. According to recent study of growth in natural gas demand in India, the share of compressed gas distributors is expected to go up to 11 per cent by 2025 from the six per cent in 2010.

Concern over land cost

Meanwhile, it is learnt that the rising cost of land may affect the implementation of a project to create an industrial corridor between Kochi and Coimbatore along the natural gas pipeline to Bangalore. About 100 sq. km. of land is needed to develop an ideal industrial zone.

However, the State agencies entrusted with the task of carrying out the preliminary works were looking out for 500 acres of land spread along the gas route, sources said. The industrial corridor was likely to have a concentration in Palakkad district considering the cost of land in Ernakulam and Thrissur.

Sources said that land availability was not much of a problem though its price was. Access to electricity and water supplies would be a major consideration while the industrial clusters were developed.

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/19/stories/2011061954090500.htm

True.... Kochi's public transport has not yet full developed. There is a shortage of 50 to 60 buses in the city and the majority dominated by red-killers.

Permits are devised as per 1980s or 1990s standards... Things have changed a lot in 2000s. We require more permits and more bus services. Apart from this ferry and rail transport has to be equally developed.

The problem with public transport is that we donot have any proper auxiliary/support units to support public transport. For example, how many loves to wait under hot sun or rains for more than 30 to 40 minutes to get a A/c Bus ride. We donot have proper bus shelters. Most of the existing are in shambles. Those who afford to pay Rs 40 or 50 for a ride, also demand a fair bus shelter.

Forget A/C service alone. Even those who pay Rs 5 for a ride, also has a right of shelter to protect from rain and sun. If we wish to ask a car-owner to forgo his personal comfort and afford all discomforts for bus ride, does that make any sense?

What Kochi requires

1. Proper large bus shelter under an uniform design
2. Better bus services both govt and private
3. Proper parking spaces near bus bays and stations, so that people can park and ride bus
4. Loyalty E-Wallet cards like Nol cards used in Dubai RTA bus
5. Monthly/Seasonal pass with discounts
6. Increased bus routes with more low-floor buses
7. Promotion of ferry/water transport

There are lot of routes which doesnt have adequate buses. For eg . FortKochi/Mattanchery/Edakochi to Thripoonithara/Vytilla/chottanikara, Kakkanad to Thripoonithara/chottanikkara. First we need to increase that instead of having BUS DAY's like this.

BTW. Already our buses are really choked (specially during peak hours). It sometimes even reminded me of mumbai local trains. We need more buses and not BUS DAYs :bash:

CIAL's MRO to be operational soon
Nedumbassery: The first phase of the airframe and components MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) developed by the Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) is nearing completion and will be operational by the year itself.

According to officials, work on the Rs.100-crore MRO facility is scheduled to be over within the next couple of weeks and the facility will be commissioned anytime after securing a clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Conceived as a joint venture, the company proposes to offer 49 percent equity to the partner and has been in consultations with a couple of carriers, including Jet Airways and the U.S.-based Delta Airlines.

Joint venture

“The partner can start functioning with their own aircraft while we will provide them a team of support technicians, apart from other infrastructure,'' a senior company official told.

Meanwhile, another official said that CIAL was mulling over a proposal to mobilise funds from the market for financing its future expansion.

CIAL has so far spent around Rs.35 crore for infrastructure and proposes to attract large-scale investments from the leading OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), other industry partners and private investors.

By targeting to reach out to business jets in the growing markets of India, the Gulf and South East Asia, CIAL calculates the project to break even within three years into its operation.

In addition, it also envisages to enter into technical collaborations and long-term business contracts with industries for the supply of raw materials, related components and spare parts.

On completion, the project will include facilities for line maintenance, run up bay, workshops and aircraft parking, apart from the two narrow body hangars in the first phase while the next phase will include two wide body hangars, more parking bays and workshops apart from two additional narrow body hangars.

It will also host a 32,000 sq.m. Apron and a taxi way link.

CIAL now possesses regulatory approvals to carry out up to the ‘A' type checks of aircraft and plans to further the operations to B, C and D checks for executive jets and narrow body aircraft.

The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/20/stories/2011062059970300.htm)

Willingdon Island Re-Development
KOCHI: The master plan for the redevelopment of the Willingdon Island will be ready in one-and-a-half month, Cochin Port Trust chairman Paul Antony said.
“The agency entrusted to prepare the master plan is expected to complete it in six weeks,” the chairman said.
The master plan is being prepared by a consortium of companies appointed by the port. A new business district in Willingdon Island is expected to be created as optimal use of land for long-term economic benefits is proposed. Under the plan, the northern side of the island will be developed for port-related activities and the southern side for business districts. There are plans to lease out 56 acres opposite the Vallarpadam terminal as three separate plots for setting up CFS and Logistics parks.
The plan to redevelop Willingdon island was mooted in the wake of commissioning of Vallarpadam International Container Transshipment Terminal as the port activities would be shifted to Vallarpadam from Willingdon Island.

Indian Express (http://expressbuzz.com/cities/kochi/plan-to-redevelop-willingdon-island/286050.html)

Cochin Airport Jn - NH 47
http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/3806/airportjn.jpg

CIAL long view
http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/3885/airportx.jpg

Airport - Angamaly NH
http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/2189/angmyairpotroad.jpg

CIAL Golf Club View
http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/1978/golfhp.jpg
cc: Dew Homes

Aluva Manappuram
http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/9417/aluvamanprm.jpg

Periyar View - Aluva
http://img803.imageshack.us/img803/9788/viewfromriveheights.jpg
cc: Raj Builders

Pulinchode Aluva
http://img688.imageshack.us/img688/1577/pulinchodjn.jpg
cc: Rajadhani Builders

ABAD Marine Plaza - Marine Drive
http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/6116/4639g.jpg

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/3348/4638.jpg

Thevara
http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/8614/abadnorthstarkaloor.jpg

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/7122/abadthevara.gif

ABAD Rainbow retreat Kakkanad
http://img847.imageshack.us/img847/7480/abadrainbowretreatkakka.jpg
cc: ABAD Builders

Panampilly Nagar
http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/1254/matherpanampilly.gif
cc: Mather

In order to give a thrust to the Clean City Project, Confederation of Real Estate Developers' Associations of India (CREDAI), Kochi, is planning to implement an array of projects in the city.

The has also plans to start a second plastic shredding unit in Kakkanad. At present, the recycling of plastic is done at the existing plastic shredding unit in Ravipuram. The recycled plastic pellets from the plant are used for tarring roads. So far, more than 22 tonnes of plastic has been recycled and stacked for further use. "However, due to lack of co-operation from the PWD and Kochi Corporation, the endeavour has not been utilised fully," said Joby Jacob, project executive, CREDAI.

The project has already resulted in the successful re-tarring of four roads in the city - in Brahmapuram, Edapally, Manapattiparambu and Rajagiri campus.

"The roads will be more durable because the plastic coating, called bitumen, fills air gaps and prevents damage to a considerable extent," said Joby.

Apart from enabling efficient recycling of plastic waste, this also helps in reducing maintenance cost. "Disputes with the PWD and conflicting interests of private players have become a major hindrance to the project. A request has been made to the Corporation to include the provision to use plastic for the tarring of roads in the existing PWD manual but the decision is pending."

He said that after setting up a new unit, the is hopeful of taking the project to the next level. Joby said that the 'Clean City Project' became an authorised movement of the Corporation in 2009 and today, it helps recycle over 30 tonnes of waste per day. "Over 250 flats under this project use the bio-bin system launched by CREDAI. More than 3,000 houses fall under the purview of this project. Recognised as an NGO in 2011, CREDAI also extends its services for waste management in major spots in the city such as Marine Drive, Naval Base, Infopark and the Collectorate," he said. "We plan to introduce an e-toilet system soon. We are also making efforts to create a suitable technique to manage e-waste in the city," Joby said.
:banana::banana::banana:


http://www.waste-management-world.com/index/from-the-wires/wire-news-display/1440570952.html

Super luxury bike Ducati would soon coming to Kochi, offering Keralites the chance to buy world's super bikes- Ducati.....



http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gfXupHOEhH0/SwRz0box99I/AAAAAAAAMk0/bII1XnTcAm0/s1600/Ducati+Desmosedici+1.jpg

Super bike maker Ducati's plans in India include being on the top gear right from the start and capture a 30 per cent market share in the power bike segment by 2013. The next cities that would feel the rubber burn are Hyderabad, Chennai, Cochin, Pune, Chandigarh and Jaipur since the company will open its dealerships there by this year end. "We are looking at 200per cent growth year on year for the next two years till the market stabalises," Ashish Chordia, CEO Ducati India, Precision Motor India said.

The competition of the bikes rolled out from the stables of Harley Davidson , Honda , Bajaj Kawasaki and Hyosung not withstanding, the firm is sure its bikes are competitively priced. The buyers range from an age group of 18 years to 45 years and around 50per cent of them even take a loan to pay off for the bikes can put a dent in by as much as Rs 15 lakh. The Bangalore dealership which was launched on Monday has already seen 15 buys within a month.

The super bike segment which has bikes with a capacity of around 1000 cc and above sees around 35 sales every month according to industry watchers.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international-business/ducati-aims-for-30-mkt-share-by-2013/articleshow/8924193.cms


:banana::banana::banana:

Super luxury bike Ducati would soon coming to Kochi

Great update! So Harley, Hyosung & now DUCATI waiting their turn to rule KOCHI streets! :cheers:

EVOK Mega Home Store to open in Cochin
After opening of @Home Mega Store (http://www.at-home.co.in/default.aspx), Cochin will soon have another home solutions mega store EVOK (http://www.evok.in/home_index.asp) from Hindware group.

Source (http://www.mydigitalfc.com/companies/hindware%E2%80%99s-evok-lines-rs-250-crore-expansion-916)

Super luxury bike Ducati would soon coming to Kochi, offering Keralites the chance to buy world's super bikes- Ducati.....


:banana::banana::banana:

VVVRRRRROOOOOMMMMM guys in Kochi will soon hear the magic sound of superbike......

EVOK Mega Home Store to open in Cochin

its retail revelution happening in kochii,

Cheer up Kochiites, the Fort Kochi Beach is all set to sport a clean and tidy look if the proposal mooted by an agency gets going.

The private agency, responsible for clearing waste in the Marina Beach, Chennai, has offered to help clean the Fort Kochi beach.

After successfully implementing its cleaning programme in the world’s second largest beach the agency representatives visited the beach the other day, according to sources.

The party had made an informal visit to the beach to conduct a study on taking up the cleaning operation. The proposal is informal and has to be discussed threadbare, sources said.

The team is expected to visit the beach once again. As per initial studies the contractor would use mechanised implements to clean up the beach.

Since the Fort Kochi beach is much smaller than the Marina, the work appears to be a smooth sail, sources said. According to the initial estimates the cleaners have agreed to work for about Rs 2,500 per day.

“This is not final. They will give a clear picture only after conducting another visit,” sources said. As for funds, the sources said the local body under which the entire area comes should take the lead. The tourism department and other voluntary agencies should come forward to help raise the funds.
"It is high time we gave serious thought to the issue of upgrading the beach to global standards. This would involve huge funds and we should find a way of raising it,” sources said.

The Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry sources said that the proposal should be urgently considered. The chamber said that it would support any measure which would help make the tourism zone clean and attractive.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/beach-to-sport-a-spickandspan-look/161332-60-122.html

http://www.cochinsquare.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/mv-logos-hope.jpg

Its cheers for Kochi. World's largest floating library, MV Logos which is currently anchored at Kochi Port, decided to continue its stay for another 5 days. The ship was scheduled to leave today, however the Logos Team decided to continue for another 5 days, due to overwhelming response from Kochinites.

The captain thanked Cochin port chairman and Mayor for extending warm support and promoting the cause of the ship. The team was recently invited to play friendly football match with Kochi United Club.

http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/localContentView.do?tabId=16&programId=1079897613&contentId=9536895&district=Cochin&BV_ID=@@@&townName=&villageName=

People's Museum for Kochi
KOCHI: The people of Kochi can now get a glance of the artefacts displayed at the National Museum, New Delhi, in the city itself.

The National Museum and the National Museum Institute of History of Art, Conservation and Museology will establish a museum at Sacred Heart College, Thevara, as part of its People's Museum programme. Replicas and photographs of masterpieces exhibited at the National Museum will be displayed at the people's museum.

The project, aimed at creating awareness among the masses, especially students, will be launched within a fortnight, K.V. Thomas, Union Minister of State for Food and Civil Supplies, has said.

The National Museum offers students and researchers an opportunity to explore the past and learn about the great civilisations that contributed to human progress. The people's museum will enable local communities to get a feel of the national museum without travelling all the way to the national capital, Mr. Thomas said.

The National Museum has a wide collection of artefacts, some of which date back to over 5,000 years. The museum also has a collection of over two lakh exquisite art works besides collections of pre-historic archaeology, archaeology, jewellery, paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, manuscripts, Central Asian antiquities, arms and armour and anthropology.

The concept of the people's museum is to make museum accessible to the local communities. The National Museum has urged schools and local communities to donate objects that have historical and cultural significance, said a communication from C.V. Ananda Bose, Director General (Administrator), National Museum and Vice-chancellor, National Museum Institute, New Delhi.

The people's museum is also envisaged as a nodal point for cultural exchanges through guided tours, lectures and demonstrations, cultural performances and audio-visual presentations. The museum will be connected through the Internet for sharing information and knowledge. The National Museum and the Museum Institute would provide the initial support for the setting up of museums. However, the operational responsibilities would be with the host institution, the communication said.

The Hindu (http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/22/stories/2011062261400200.htm)

New life for Cochin Airport Railway Station
CIAL has given consent to built railway station in its property and District collector has got instruction on this.

The budget for this has been prepared. CIAL is also planning to built railway track from the present line till airport, so that Railway tram of 2-3 bogies can be used to take passengers till airport.
:banana:

Madhyamam (http://www.madhyamam.com/news/90766/110621)

This is an important news. There should have a small railway station at Nedumbassery . Then it will be convenient to the people who are going to airports from Thrissur and other northern districts.

its retail revelution happening in kochii,

Karikkineth Silks to open Kochi Showroom
Karikkineth silks will open new showrooms in Kollam, Kottayam & Kochi.

Mathrubhumi (http://www.mathrubhumi.com/business/news_articles/story-194821.html)

Good New!!!

Kerala Chamber of Commerce and Industries decided to support Apple-A-Day flat scam victims. KCCI, along with victims are ready to take over uncompleted projects that the builders left and complete the constructions. In addition, KCCI along with State Legal Services Authority (KELSA) will provide free legal remedies to victims to realize their money from the arrested builders, thro' revenue recovery and other means as well as to prosecute the builders.
:banana::banana:

ഇന്ത്യയിലെ മുന്*നിര സെല്ലുലാര്* സേവനദാതാക്കളായ വോഡാഫോണ്* എസ്സാര്*, കേരളത്തില്* 3 ജി സര്*വീസ് ആരംഭിച്ചു. എറണാകുളം, ആലുവ, കോഴിക്കോട്, കൊച്ചി, കൊയിലാണ്ടി, ആലപ്പുഴ, ചേര്*ത്തല, മലപ്പുറം, മഞ്ചേരി എന്നിവിടങ്ങളിലാണ് 3 ജി സര്*വീസ് ആരംഭിക്കുക. മറ്റ് ഭാഗങ്ങളില്* ഘട്ടംഘട്ടമായി 3ജി സേവനം വ്യാപിപ്പിക്കും. ഇതിന്റെ ഭാഗമായി തിരഞ്ഞെടുക്കപ്പെട്ട ചില പാക്കേജുകളില്* ജൂലായ് 31 വരെ ഇരട്ടി ഡാറ്റാ അനുവദിച്ചിട്ടുണ്ട്.

ആശയ വിനിമയത്തില്* വലിയൊരു മാറ്റം വരുത്തുന്നതോടൊപ്പം ഇന്*റര്*നെറ്റ് സൗകര്യം ശക്തമാക്കാനും 3 ജി സഹായിക്കുമെന്ന് വോഡാഫോണ്* എസ്സാര്* കേരള ബിസിനസ് മേധാവി കെ. സുന്ദര രാമന്* പറഞ്ഞു. 21.1 എംബിപിഎസ് സൂപ്പര്* ഫാസ്റ്റ് ഇന്*റര്*നെറ്റ് ലഭ്യത, വീഡിയോ കോളിങ് ഹൈഡെഫനിഷന്* ഗെയിമിങ് എന്നിവയാണ് വോഡഫോണ്* 3 ജി സര്*വീസിന്റെ പ്രത്യേകതകള്*. 20 രാജ്യങ്ങളില്* വോഡാഫോണ്* 3 ജി സര്*വീസ് ലഭ്യമാണ്.

26 രൂപയ്ക്ക് 25 എംബിക്ക് പകരം 50 എംബിയും (കാലാവധി ഒരുദിവസം) 101 രൂപയ്ക്ക് 100 എംബിക്ക് പകരം 200 എംബിയും (30 ദിവസം) 375 രൂപയ്ക്ക് 500 എംബിക്ക് പകരം ഒരു ജിബിയും (30 ദിവസം) ആണ് പ്രീ പെയ്ഡ് വരിക്കാര്*ക്കുള്ള ഡാറ്റാ ബെനിഫിറ്റ് ഓഫര്*.

100 രൂപയ്ക്ക് 100 എംബിക്ക് പകരം 200 എംബിയും (കാലാവധി 30 ദിവസം) 375 രൂപയ്ക്ക് 500 എംബിക്ക് പകരം ഒരു ജിബിയും (കാലാവധി 30 ദിവസം) ആണ് പോസ്റ്റ് പെയ്ഡ് വരിക്കാര്*ക്കുള്ള ഓഫര്*.

സൗജന്യ ഉപയോഗം കഴിഞ്ഞാല്* പ്രീപെയ്ഡ് വരിക്കാര്*ക്ക് 10 കെബിക്ക് 10 പൈസയും പോസ്റ്റ് പെയ്ഡ് വരിക്കാര്*ക്ക് 10 കെബിക്ക് രണ്ട് പൈസയുമാണ് നിരക്ക്.

http://www.mathrubhumi.com/business/news_articles/story-194809.html


Kerala's major cell service provider- Vodafone launched 3G services in 9 circles of Kerala. Kochi, Ernakulam, Aluva will be connected with 3G. Apart from these places, Kozhikode, Alleppey, Cherthala, Malappuram, Koyilandi, Mancheri would be connected in first phase. Other places would be brought under 3G in phased manner.

Kerala's major cell service provider- Vodafone launched 3G services in 9 circles of Kerala. Kochi, Ernakulam, Aluva will be connected with 3G. Apart from these places, Kozhikode, Alleppey, Cherthala, Malappuram, Koyilandi, Mancheri would be connected in first phase. Other places would be brought under 3G in phased manner.
Do Vodafone has 3G spectrum license in Kerala??Aapart from BSNL,Idea Cellular (Idea 1959-1964 Mhz),Tata Docomo (1969-1974 Mhz) & Aircel (1974-1979 Mhz) are the winners in the 3G Spectrum bidding.Then how come Vodofone start 3G where they don't have the license??:nuts:

See This

http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/3292/3gauctionresultsindia.jpg

Do Vodafone has 3G spectrum license in Kerala??Aapart from BSNL,Idea Cellular (Idea 1959-1964 Mhz),Tata Docomo (1969-1974 Mhz) & Aircel (1974-1979 Mhz) are the winners in the 3G Spectrum bidding.Then how come Vodofone start 3G where they don't have the license??:nuts:

See This

So how come they announce the offer and scheme in a major daily like Mathrubhumi.......?

So how come they announce the offer and scheme in a major daily like Mathrubhumi.......?

It is true that Vodafone and Airtel does not have Kerala Circle. But Vodafone-Idea and Airtel have an agreement on 3G services. According to the agreement if any one of the 3 telecom operators have 3G license in a particular circle, the other two can use the same license and roll-out 3G service in a code-share manner. Thats is why vodafone and airtel did not bid for Kerala circle.

And yes it is true that they have started 3G in Kerala. I got a call from Vodafone asking whether to activate 3G service.