Stakeholders of the Vyttila Mobility Hub in Kochi are hopeful that a ₹10-crore project by Cochin Smart Mission Limited (CSML) will address the dilapidated state of the hub. The project aims to improve infrastructure, including bus stops, and address the issue of flooding on the hub premises, which has been a major concern for commuters. The Vyttila Mobility Hub Society (VMHS), responsible for the maintenance of the hub, has been criticized for its lack of action in ensuring the upkeep of the premises. Pedestrians and commuters have raised concerns about the dangerous conditions within the hub, including broken paver blocks and flooding. T.V. Paulose, president of the Vyttila Bus Terminal Neighbours’ Association, highlighted the need for immediate action to prevent accidents and inconvenience to passengers. He stated that petitions sent to stakeholders to address the issues have been ignored. CSML sources revealed that the contractor responsible for relaying the damaged paver blocks has been given a month to complete the task, failing which the contract will be terminated. The CSML will also install lights in areas that require better illumination for the safety of commuters and other users of the hub. Commuters have expressed their frustration with the situation, with some resorting to unique protests such as floating paper boats on the flooded entry to the metro station. They are urging VMHS and Kochi Metro Rail Limited to take immediate action to improve the conditions. The VMHS has also failed to deliver on its promise of commencing phase-two development work on the hub premises in public-private partnership mode, adding to the disappointment of stakeholders. With more buses set to call at the hub, thanks to an agreement with the KSRTC, the need for improvement in infrastructure and maintenance becomes even more pressing. Stakeholders are hopeful that the CSML project will be a turning point in restoring the Vyttila Mobility Hub to its former state and providing a safe and convenient experience for commuters.
