Addressing walkability of Kochi corporation area with a focus on inland water transportation

Abstract

Abstract Kochi Corporation area is one of the most densely populated corporations in Kerala. The haphazard growth results in least importance on pedestrians. Walking is a healthy culture, which is inevitable in our daily lives. When we consider other modes of transportation, waterborne transportation has the least negative impacts. Here, nearly fifty percent of Kochi corporation area is surrounded by water and has the potential to develop ferry routes. Through the ferry routes we can access the major nodes of the city. However, due to lack of walking infrastructure and proper connectivity, there is a decline in the walking culture. Identifying the scope of walkability in Kochi Corporation area helps to develop a walkable city, which can be an efficient contributor to sustainability. When we blend walking and ferry routes in an urban core, it gives in a ray of hope for sustainability. This paper looks into interlinking the potentials of urban ferry stations and walkability of Kochi Corporation area; thereby aiming to improve the connectivity and built environment of streets near ferry stations. This also looks into providing a safe and healthy built environment of Kochi Corporation area thereby playing a major role in balancing sustainability.