KATHMANDU, August 14

Kathmandu Metropolitan City is set to carry out feasibility study to construct an underground parking lot in Khula Manch. An Expression of Interest has been invited from those interested in undertaking the project in coordination with KMC under the Public-Private Partnership scheme to gradually discourage surface parking and boost smooth traffic flow.

The construction of underground parking at Khula Manch is meant to end the parking woes of those plying vehicles regularly in city core areas, mainly in and around Basantapur, Ason, Bhotahiti, Kilagal, Tebahal, Lagan, Thamel, Ratna Park, New Road and Tripureshwor.

Utter Kumar Regmi, Chief of Department of Physical Development and Construction at KMC, said about five subways leading to Old Bus Park, Jamal, New Road, Shahid Gate and KMC gate would also be constructed for the smooth flow of pedestrians.

“The underground parking and subways will address the parking concerns while easing the pedestrian, as well as traffic, flow in the city core areas. The geological, financial, and technical factors are being studied thoroughly for the underground parking in Khula Manch,” he told THT.

The projects are also expected to spare some space for the street vendors and businessmen for commercial activities. Security forces will be deployed for the safety of the pedestrians, drivers, and vehicles. Sanitation staff will be delegated for cleaning the underground parking and subways. The underground parking will be designed as per vernacular architecture — based on local needs, construction materials and reflecting local traditions.

“Relocating the street vendors to underground parking will spare enough space for the mobility of pedestrians along the footpaths while contributing to the vehicle-free zone in the periphery of city core areas dotted with heritage houses, monuments, temples and buildings,” he said.