Two major automated multi-level car parking (MLCP) facilities in Thiruvananthapuram, inaugurated with significant public expectation in November, continue to remain non-operational, failing to deliver promised relief to the city's chronic parking problems.
Ceremonial Launch, But No Public Access
The facilities, located at Putharikandam Ground and the Medical College campus, were launched as flagship projects under the Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL) initiative. They were designed to replicate the success of the existing Palayam MLCP and the facility opposite Thampanoor railway station, targeting key traffic congestion hotspots. However, nearly a month after their high-profile inauguration, both structures stand closed to the public due to a series of unresolved issues.
Medical College MLCP: Blocked by Construction
At the Medical College site, a facility critically needed for one of the city's busiest hospital complexes, ongoing construction of a super-specialty block and an adjacent access road has physically blocked vehicle entry. Security personnel stationed at the entrance routinely turn away vehicles, despite SCTL's earlier announcement that a trial run had begun and a public opening was anticipated by mid-year.
A senior SCTL official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the technical readiness of the facility. "The trial operations are complete and the facility is technically ready," the official stated. "But due to ongoing construction works nearby and safety concerns we cannot let the public use the facility yet. We are coordinating with corporation and medical college authorities to finalize access arrangements."
This delay has severely aggravated daily congestion around the Medical College junction, where rampant on-street parking chokes traffic flow and creates significant hurdles for patients and visitors.
Putharikandam MLCP: Railway's Space Demand
A different challenge has stalled the Rs 20 crore Putharikandam Ground MLCP, which was expected to ease parking pressure at East Fort, Chalai market, and the rear entrance of Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station. Indian Railways, facing a space crunch due to ongoing construction at the Central station, has requested the use of nearly half the parking floors to accommodate station-bound vehicles.
Discussions between SCTL and the Railways regarding the allocation and management of this shared space are currently underway. The SCTL official acknowledged the Railways' predicament but emphasized the need for clarity. "We understand the Railways' operational challenges," the official said. "But we need a clear plan on how shared use will work without affecting residents and commuters who are expecting parking solutions here."
Pending Decisions and Future Timeline
Another critical factor contributing to the continued closure of both facilities is the unfinalized parking fee structure. Officials indicated that the rates will be aligned with those at the Palayam MLCP, but final approval on the fee schedule is only expected next month.
Despite the current impasse, SCTL remains hopeful for a resolution. The official projected a full operational launch for both MLCPs within the next two months, pending the settlement of all regulatory, technical, and inter-agency coordination issues. For now, the capital's commuters and residents are left waiting, as the much-anticipated parking solutions remain locked and unused.
