CAccording to DMRC officials, the vacant land below the bridge has been raised by interlocking tiles. “There is sufficient area under the bridge to park 20 vehicles at least. People who come to the railway station, town hall or nearby areas can park their vehicles there,” DMRC officials said.

At the moment, only the area near the town hall has been developed for the purpose. Once the metro viaduct works are completed at the Lisie Hospital section, the DMRC will expand the area and develop it for parking space.

“The area near the Lisie end won’t be as large as the existing space. However, it also can accommodate at least another 15 vehicles. We have envisaged a plan exclusively for parking in the area,” the DMRC officials said. DMRC principal adviser E Sreedharan said the area will be either handed over to the Kochi Corporation or any corporate agency for maintenance.

Officials added that it was mandatory for the Kochi Corporation or any other implementing agency to charge fees from the vehicle owners. “Otherwise flouting of rules as well as anti-social activities might become rampant in the area,” they said.

Kochi Corporation Mayor Tony Chammany said if the DMRC seeks their help in the matter, they will utilise the space for parking.

“Parking is the responsibility of the Corporation and we will undertake steps in this regard if we are given the charge. Let the DMRC approach us,” he said.