An open-air theatre in Jos Jn owned by KMRL and developed for cultural programmes is being used for private parking
Tarzan said activists were planning a children’s programme at the venue on Nov 14 and would seek permission for it.
There will be many takers if they levy nominal charges,” said Jayendran. He said the facility could host cultural events and community gatherings instead of remaining idle or being rented out for parking. Councillors have assured them that the issue will be raised at the next council meeting, he said. Former Mayor K J Sohan said the creation of public spaces was an integral part aimed at improving urban life, preserving heritage and encouraging community activities.
Kochi: When Kochi Metro (KMRL) and Water Metro (KWML) networks were planned, the vision extended far beyond mass transit. Open-air stages, walkways, cycle-tracks, and other non-motorized transport (NMT) initiatives were designed to spark urban renewal and create vibrant hubs for community life. At the heart of the issue is the growing conflict between the need to generate revenue and the responsibility to preserve public spaces for community use. Transit authorities, burdened by high operational costs and loan repayments, are prioritizing non-farebox revenue. Residents and civic activists, however, argue that the commercial use of these facilities defeats the very purpose for which they were created. At the Tripunithura Metro station, a purpose-built open stage sits largely silent. “The open stage has no takers as they are charging exorbitant rates for the small facility. They also plan to submit a memorandum to the mayor, Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) officials and elected representatives, demanding that Kochi Corporation take over the facility.
Today, however, many of these public spaces remain underutilized, ill-maintained or are being converted into commercial parking lots.