Kochi: If everything falls as per the plans of the transport department, passengers could soon enjoy the comfy of 'busports' with amenities on par with airports.
The state government finally initiated the process to set up 'Bus Ports and Logistics Hubs' across the state by appointing three experienced consultants to prepare Detailed Project Report (DPR).
"We target to identify ten bus ports at main centres in another five months. The order appointing consultants for DPR preparation was out the other day," K. R. Jytothilal, the principal secretary, told DC.
"The bus stations will be equipped with a host of facilities like properly-maintained toilet, waiting hall, eatery, passenger information system (PIS), WiFi, electric vehicle charging points and even parking lots."
The three NICSI approved consultants were selected after evaluating a dozen proposals submitted.
Each one has been entrusted with identifying locations and preparing a plan for the development of the facilities in South, Central and North zones respectively.
While 'South zone' comprises Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha and Ernakulam districts, the 'Central zone' includes Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram districts. The North zone includes Kozhikode, Kannur, Wayanad and Kasargod districts.
"Besides improving passenger comfort, the bus ports will help in charging of electric vehicles. We've asked the consultants to prepare an action plan for e-mobility in the state too," the official said.
According to sources, the bus ports are proposed to be operated on a public-private partnership (PPP) basis.
The facilities will cater to both the KSRTC and private buses besides aiding the Intelligent Transit Management System.
The Logistics port is aimed to be set up at main towns like Kochi and will facilitate services like customs clearing, warehousing and management.
