The Kerala Chamber of Commerce and Industry has called upon the authorities to convene a joint meeting with the representatives of the trade and others concerned before going ahead with the demolition of North Over Bridge, which is considered to be an important link and one of the gateways to Kochi.

The chamber in a press release issued here said they are not against the demolition of the North Bridge and construction of four-lane road. At the same time, the project raises concerns over traffic-related issues in the city. The authorities have come out with many ideas to restrict vehicle traffic when construction begins.

The restriction of traffic and the alternative routes suggested would only add to the woes of the commuters and vehicle traffic in and out of the city. The same would jeopardise the functioning of High Court, schools and various educational institutions and many business and commercial establishments situated in the city.

The alternative routes such as Pullepady and Kathrikadavu is not capable of handling the enhanced traffic when it is diverted. Similarly the other route via Pachalam is also narrow with railway gates. Hence, the authorities should strengthen and widen the alternative routes and clearly come out with a master plan to take care of the traffic diversions.

KCCI is of the view that as far as possible, traffic diversions should be avoided during day time and work should be carried out during night hours to avoid the inconvenience and hardships to the general public, business community etc as being done by some other metros in India.

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