Technical Clearance Hold-Up Halts ₹13 Crore Karikkamuri Bus Hub

The proposed construction of a new KSRTC bus terminal at Karikkamuri in Ernakulam has been delayed as the project awaits technical clearance from the state government, despite receiving administrative sanction earlier this year.

The government has approved the project at a revised cost of ₹13 crore, significantly lower than the original estimate of ₹27 crore. The cost was reduced after the government directed the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to scale down the proposal due to financial constraints.

As part of the revised plan, the proposed two-storey terminal building has been dropped, while the number of bus bays has been reduced from 33 to 22.

According to Public Works Department (PWD) officials, the implementation schedule was also affected by the Model Code of Conduct in force ahead of the Assembly elections. "We are waiting for technical clearance from the government. Once the approval is received, the tender for the project can be invited," a PWD official said.

The existing KSRTC bus station at Karikkamuri has long been plagued by inadequate passenger amenities, including poor sanitation, insufficient waiting facilities and unhygienic conditions. Although KSRTC completed renovation works at the terminal in March, issues such as space constraints and waterlogging continue to inconvenience passengers.

Ernakulam MLA T.J. Vinod said he has urged both KSRTC and PWD officials to expedite the project, which is expected to significantly improve passenger facilities.

The proposed terminal, to be built on 2.9 acres, is planned as a transport hub for both KSRTC and private buses. The facility will include parking areas, offices, public toilets and air-conditioned passenger waiting halls. The bus bays will be constructed using steel fabrication technology, while the project will also include a separate administrative block.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.