Kochi: Complete Traffic Ban At THIS Stretch From Today Due To Construction Work

Kochi: Due to upcoming construction work on the Chilavannoor Bund Bridge, Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has imposed a complete ban on traffic on the route starting from Tuesday. According to KMRL officials, pile load testing for the bridge construction will begin in the coming days, which has led to the complete traffic ban.A press note issued by KMRL stated that the traffic ban is being enforced to ensure the safety of passengers and residents in the area. According to a report by the Times of India (TOI), the bridge project is a major infrastructure development initiative in Kochi. This project is being implemented under the Integrated Urban Regeneration and Water Transport System (IURWTS). The total cost of the bridge project is Rs 33 crore.The TOI report also mentioned that the bridge will enhance accessibility for Water Metro boats to the Elamkulam Metro station area. Additionally, the bridge is set to be an iconic 90-meter span structure, expected to become a popular hangout spot in Kochi.Also Read: Kochi Metro's Fresh Record! Daily Ridership Crosses 1 Lakh Consistently During Onam HolidaysThe city metro consistently recorded daily ridership crossing the one-lakh mark last week due to the heavy rush of vehicles on Kochi roads during the Onam holidays. On average, 90,000 passengers travel by Kochi metro each day.According to a report by the New Indian Express, ridership increased with the start of the 10-day Onam festivities on September 6, and a total of 1,23,311 commuters availed themselves of the modern transport system on Friday (September 13). A metro spokesperson said that the daily footfall on September 7 was 1,22,574, whereas on September 13, it was 1,20,515.The TNIE report also mentioned that the metro services proved to be beneficial for daily commuters and office workers, allowing them to reach their workplaces and return home without getting caught in severe traffic jams.