KOCHI: The incomplete and uneven central median beneath the Metro viaduct from Aluva to Edappally cause difficulties to pedestrians, especially the elderly. Though Kochi Metro Rail Ltd announced beautification of the median, the works have not yet been started. "The uneven median with protruding stone edges at pedestrian zebra crossing in Pulinchode bus stop causes difficulties to people. Being in the bus stop, the zebra crossing is being used by hundreds of commuters. For the pedestrians it is more risky to cross the median which has become a dumping place of construction refuse than crossing the national highway," said Sathi Devi, a resident of the Patterippuram.
Sources at KMRL told DC that the Metro agency is willing to take up the completion of works central median, provided the National Highways Authority of India allows it. "KMRL has elaborate plans for the beautification of central median of the Metro viaduct. Vertical gardens will be set up along the stretch. But there are objections from certain corners against the beautification project," sources said. The NHAI is yet to give permission for the median beautification and construction of utility duct along the national highway.
