As even ground spaces are rented out to commercial establishments, Namma Metro passengers who use their own vehicles for first and last mile connectivity to metro stations have a tough time finding parking areas.
The revenue generated through rental fee from restaurants, retail shops and hotels contributes significantly to BMRCL. However, these luxuries are not what most metro commuters need.
“As a service provider, the corporation should focus on providing parking facilities rather than building up rooms to rent out space for hotels and retail shops,” said Giridhar KN, who has written to officials demanding arrangements, reports Deccan Herald.
Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is all set to develop empty spaces at the stations that fall under a larger scheme of the commercial development plan and has taken note of the citizens’ demands.
BMRCL Managing Director Ajay Seth said they will review the existing leases and come up with a framework to ensure commercial land development does not infringe on passengers’ safety and convenience.
Deccan Herald quoted him as saying, “It’s a learning curve for us. Besides metro passengers, the framework will also consider the interest of commuters on the nearby service roads and pedestrians walking on the footpath. The existing contracts will be reviewed as and when they come up for renewal.”