The Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), the operator of Kerala’s largest and busiest airport near Kochi, has announced the implementation of a streamlined vehicle parking system using FASTag and Smart Parking technology.
After a successful trial phase, CIAL plans to make the system operational starting December 1. The introduction of cutting-edge technology is expected to significantly reduce waiting times at entry-exit points for vehicle parking, from an average of 2 minutes to an impressive 8 seconds, according to a press release issued by CIAL on Wednesday.
CIAL asserts a parking capacity for 2,800 vehicles across its domestic and international terminals. The FASTag system, an electronic toll collection system by the National Highways Authority of India, will be utilized for both parking and entry to the airport. However, CIAL mentions the temporary use of a dedicated lane for vehicles without FASTag.
Responding to demands from local authorities and law enforcement, CIAL has developed additional parking space to accommodate commercial taxi services, currently parked along the roadside leading to the airport. To access these facilities, an entry fee of Rs 60 is applicable for taxis, with an additional parking charge of Rs 80 for an hour (inclusive of the entry fee), as outlined in the press release.
The Functioning Process
As per CIAL, its ‘FASTag and Smart Parking’ system encompasses key features such as a Parking Management System (PMS) designed to streamline parking operations for optimal efficiency. Additionally, it includes a Parking Guidance System (PGS) to facilitate smooth navigation during entry, exit, and within the parking facility.
The system incorporates a Parking Slot Counting System that provides real-time updates on available parking spaces. The Automatic Number Plate Reader (ANPR) integrated with the ticketing system ensures accurate tracking of vehicle entry times.
Furthermore, the implementation involves pay-on-foot stations, allowing passengers to independently operate the automatic parking payment mechanism. CIAL emphasizes the convenience of effortlessly booking parking slots through a customized mobile portal accessible via the CIAL mobile application.
CIAL’s parking management system boasts 900 strategically placed Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras for meticulous oversight and efficient administration, as stated in its release.
CIAL Parking Charges
| SL. NO | TYPE OF VEHICLE | UPTO 10 Mins | UPTO 2 HOURS | ADDITIONAL HOUR | LONG TERM PER 24 HRS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | COMMERCIAL 4-WHEELER VEHICLES | Rs. 60.00 | Rs. 100.00 | Rs. 30.00 | Rs. 350.00 |
| 2 | PRIVATE 4-WHEELER VEHICLES | Free | Rs. 100.00 | Rs. 30.00 | Rs. 350.00 |
| 3 | COACHES | Rs. 350.00 | Rs. 350.00 | Rs. 60.00 | Rs. 1000.00 |
| 4 | TEMPO TRAVELLER / MINI BUSES | Rs.250.00 | Rs. 250.00 | Rs. 60.00 | Rs.750.00 |
| 5 | HEAVY / SMALL CARGO VEHICLES | Rs.100.00 | Rs.100.00 | Rs. 30.00 | Rs.350.00 |
| 6 | EDUCATIONAL / SMALL CVS | Rs.150.00 | Rs.150.00 | Rs. 30.00 | Rs.600.00 |
| 7 | 2 WHEELERS | Free | Rs.20.00 | Rs.10.00 | Rs.150.00 |
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