The multi-level car parking (MLCP) facility being constructed at Vaniyamkulam, near the bustling Chalai Market in Thiruvananthapuram, is expected to be opened to the public by September. This development is anticipated to provide significant relief to the worsening parking congestion in Chalai Market and the surrounding commercial areas.
Progress and Design of the MLCP
According to officials from Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL), approximately 30% of the construction work has been completed, and the project is progressing steadily. The facility is primarily being developed to accommodate trucks involved in logistics and goods transportation to Chalai Market and East Fort, in addition to providing parking space for cars.
A senior SCTL official elaborated on the design, stating that the Vaniyamkulam MLCP has been conceived as a mixed-use facility, taking into account the commercial potential of the area. The structure will comprise four floors:
- Ground Floor: Exclusively earmarked for truck parking, as heavy vehicles bringing goods to Chalai and East Fort currently cause severe congestion on the roads.
- First Floor: Dedicated to car parking.
- Second and Third Floors: To be leased out for commercial purposes, including shops or halls, leveraging the strong commercial viability of the locality.
Part of Broader Urban Mobility Initiatives
This project is part of the smart mobility and urban infrastructure initiatives being implemented in the capital to address the acute shortage of organized parking facilities in major commercial hubs. In a related development, the newly completed MLCPs at Medical College and Putharikandam have been opened to the public after trial operations began on Thursday, following the lifting of the election model code of conduct.
Medical College MLCP
The Medical College MLCP is expected to significantly ease parking issues around the medical college hospital, one of the busiest healthcare hubs in the state. Patients, visitors, and hospital staff often struggle to find parking space. The automated parking system at this facility is designed to maximize vehicle accommodation within limited urban space.
Putharikandam MLCP
Similarly, the Putharikandam MLCP, located near East Fort, is expected to benefit commuters, traders, and visitors arriving in the city centre. Situated close to major transport hubs and shopping areas, this facility is anticipated to reduce roadside parking and traffic bottlenecks in the crowded locality.
Tariff and Public Appeal
The tariff for parking at these MLCPs is the same as that at the Palayam MLCP. Corporation officials have urged the public to make maximum use of these MLCP facilities to help reduce traffic congestion and illegal roadside parking across the city.
