THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After several failed attempts to auction commercial space at Thampanoor bus terminal, the KTDFC (Kerala transport development financial corporation) has floated a revised tender slashing rates to woo more investors.
For a change, this time KTDFC has not mentioned its rock bottom rates to woo investors. There is about 1.75 lakh square feet commercial space in the bus terminal.
KTDFC managing director Usha Devi told DC that it was a final attempt by KTDFC to make the terminal fully operational.
“We floated tenders many times but the rates were a bit high compared to the adjoining areas. So this time we are hoping that more parties will come forward. We have not mentioned any rates in the tender. But the rates in the adjoining areas would be considered as a benchmark while auctioning,” said Usha Devi.
She said that negotiations would be held with the participants. “This time we will not be taking a final decision. We have decided to give a report to the government along with the rates in the adjoining areas and rates quoted by the participants. This time the government can take a call whether to give the space at this rate or go for higher rates,” said Usha Devi.
Interestingly, KTDFC has not put any restriction or specified the kind of commercial activities allowed inside the terminal.
The central bus station caters to about 1,240 departures daily out of which 45 percent trips account for long distance buses and 55 percent of short distance buses.
