Nature park coming up at Vyttila hub to ease wait time

Kochi: Commuters waiting for buses at the Vyttila Mobility Hub may soon have a green space to relax, with work commencing on the proposed ‘Nature Park' coming up just behind the hub.After nearly a two-year delay caused by funding constraints, the Cochin Smart City Mission Ltd (CSML) has begun work on the Rs 5.43 crore Nature Park project located directly behind the bus bays of the Vyttila Mobility Hub. The open space project, spread across 5.5 acres along the banks of the Kaniyampuzha River, aims to transform what was once a neglected wasteland into a serene waterfront recreational zone. CSML had earlier entered into an agreement with the Vytilla Mobility Hub Society to implement the open space development and undertake repair works on the carriageway within the integrated transport terminal. However, the VMHS was able to provide its share, half of the total project cost of Rs 9.56 crore covering both open space development and carriageway repairs, only recently, resulting in the delay. Officials said the project will focus on preserving the site's natural character by limiting artificial infrastructure and maximizing green landscaping. Unlike conventional parks dominated by concrete structures, the plan is to retain existing trees and enhance the landscape through nature-based interventions."Our idea is to develop a space where passengers can unwind, while also serving as a recreational lung space for nearby residents. Work on the open space behind the bus bays has begun. The area has been cleaned, and thick undergrowth has been cleared. Technical evaluation is currently under way, and actual construction work will begin in two weeks," a CSML official said. In parallel, long-pending repair works on the main carriageway of the Vyttila Mobility Hub have also been completed. Minor finishing works, including painting, remain. CSML is also implementing a series of urban improvement projects worth Rs 30 crore aimed at enhancing public spaces across Kochi. These include beautification of the Palarivattom and Vyttila flyovers through public art initiatives. Administrative sanction has been granted for Rs 12 crore worth of projects, including the renovation of Arjunan Master Ground at Palluruthy and the construction of a public walkway at Panampilly Nagar, the official said.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Valentine's day wishes, messages and quotes !