Insane idea finds place in budget

Pay-and-park scheme scrapped

The Hindu

BANGALORE, MARCH 28. The Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BMP) has decided to do away with the pay-and-park scheme, which was in force on 142 roads. Parking on these roads will be free from April 1.

Speaking to presspersons after the presentation of the BMP budget, the Mayor, R. Narayanaswamy, said the BMP is firm on the decision to introduce free parking. Alternatives for regulating parking will be worked out after a meeting with the authorities concerned, which will be called shortly.

About the letter by the Commissioner of Police, S. Mariswamy, asking the BMP not to withdraw the pay-and-park scheme as it will lead to an increase in vehicle thefts, Mr. Narayanaswamy retorted: "What do you say about the 500-odd vehicle thefts reported this month, when the pay-and-park scheme is still in vogue?" The BMP Commissioner, Jothiramalingam, said parking on the 142 roads will be free as it has been on other 860 roads in the city.

Fee in some areas

But Mr. Jothiramalingam said parking fee will be collected in Jayanagar 2nd Block, Jayanagar Shopping Complex, Public Utility Building, Russel Market, Sri Krishnarajendra Market, Yeshwantpur Market and Rajajinagar Market. The BMP is expecting a revenue of Rs. 9.5 crores from these areas, he said.

He said parking fee will also be collected in the two multilevel parking complexes coming up in Magrath Road and K.G. Road. The facilities are nearing completion.