Banks DIH Limited yesterday unveiled a six-storey parking facility that will enable 350 of its employees to lodge their vehicles free of cost.
President Irfaan Ali attended the inauguration. Ali commended Banks Automotive for its innovative approach, particularly praising the company’s commitment to importing electric vehicles (EVs) that will be both trouble-free and environmentally friendly. Chairman of Banks DIH, Clifford Reis during his address, assured that their new vehicles will deliver a decade of trouble-free operation with no need for spare parts or maintenance, while remaining pollution-free.
The newly launched parking facility, which stands six storeys high, was built by Kares Engineering Company Limited and cost approximately US$13m. All 6 storeys are not for parking, the top floor is to be used for fine dining.
This landmark project coincides with the current administration’s support for electric vehicles, reflected in the zero-tax policy on EVs. The government is also investing in a comprehensive national network of EV charging stations to further support the adoption of electric transportation.
Banks DIH Director Shabbir Hussain provided background on the parking facility. He said when he joined the company in 1981 there were only 12 vehicles. Today there are 350 and before the parking facility they were required to park on the road.
He said Reis challenged company executives to find a solution to this parking problem. They travelled to Florida to view car parks and began planning.
Hussain lauded the input of Adriano Garcia and RCD Services. Geotechnical investigation for the project was done by local engineer Charles Ceres.
The entire structure is 208,000 square feet and weighs 12,000 tonnes. Pile driving analysis was done by Andrew Budhram and thereafter 249 14-inch by 14-inch, 100 feet long pre stressed concrete piles were driven.
Hussain noted that there were several constraints during the construction period including a labour shortage and the COVID-19 pandemic which shut down the project for eight months.
The parking facility is equipped with fire suppressants.
