The work at the nature park has finally gathered pace after missing the Sept deadline
Sprawling across 5.5 acres, the project aims to transform a previously hazardous wasteland into an open green space. “Nearly 70% of the civil works are complete. The initiative faced prior delays due to funding bottlenecks, with VMHS only recently handing over the full project cost of Rs 9.56 crore, which covers both the open space and hub carriageway repairs.
We aim to complete the remaining work in two months,” said a senior VMHS official. Cochin Smart Mission Ltd (CSML) is executing the development on behalf of Vyttila Mobility Hub Society (VMHS).
Work on Nature Park, located directly behind the hub’s bus bays along Kaniyampuzha River, has gained momentum with a revised opening schedule of Jan 2027. To ensure commuters never miss their transport, six access paths will directly connect the park to the 13 bus bays. CSML is also facing administrative hurdles and a severe staff shortage, having laid off nearly 75% of its employees as its mandate narrows to finishing pending projects. VMHS itself prepared the first DPR and master plan, estimated to cost Rs 433.34 crore, back in 2014.
You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kochi | Silver Rate in Kochi | Bank Holidays in Kochi | Public Holidays in Kochi Stay updated with the latest Kochi news. Kochi : People reaching Vyttila Mobility Hub will soon have a serene waterfront retreat to unwind. “The development prioritises natural landscaping and minimal artificial infrastructure over traditional concrete parks. Trees are being retained to create a natural recreational lung for public. There will be dedicated walkways and lighting in Phase I,” the official added. Initially, there will also be facilities like a recreational area and food kiosk, granite seating along the riverbank, a dedicated children’s play area with sensory equipment to foster problem-solving and emotional expression, etc. Specialised features, such as a sculpture gallery, are scheduled for a later phase. Meanwhile, Phase II of Vyttila Mobility Hub continues to be in cold storage for more than one-and-a-half decades. The then govt cited a paucity of funds, which stalled the project. Though the previous LDF govt attempted to revive the project towards the end of its tenure, the new govt is yet to take any concrete measures to this end. Download the TOI App.