Space crunch gives impetus to multilevel parking options

Plans being readied for facilities under the aegis of Cochin Smart Mission Ltd.

The influx of people into cities and towns in private vehicles following the pandemic situation and the resultant parking space crunch have impelled urban planners and architects to give thought to multi-level parking options. The commissioning earlier this year of puzzle-type multi-level parking space for 102 cars in approximately 11 cents near the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation office and plans being readied for such amenities in more areas in the capital and in Kochi (under the aegis of Cochin Smart Mission Ltd.) has further given impetus to such initiatives. The benefits are many, provided such parking amenities are maintained well, say stakeholders. “There are basically two types of mechanised multi-level parking lots — puzzle and stack types. Puzzle type is more popular, although it needs an investment of around ₹4 lakh per car. Stack parking space can be readied at ₹2 lakh per car, although there are limitations,” said Oommen Mani, a Kochi-based architect.