The Union Urban Development Ministry in its attempt to discourage the use of private vehicles and decongest Delhi, may increase the parking charges by up to 25 times, reported India Today.
These recommendations have been made by a high powered committee set up by the ministry to suggest ways to decongest the national capital. The panel is headed by Union Development Secretary Rajiv Gauba who has suggested that the parking fee should be based on the principle “higher the congestion, higher the fee.”
The committee identified Connaught Place, Chandni Chowk and Delhi Airport as the most frequented and congested areas, and has proposed the parking fee of Rs 500 per eight hours for cars and Rs 250 for two-wheelers for the same duration.
In markets like Greater Kailash, Karol Bagh, Lajpat Nagar and Sarojini Nagar, rates have been fixed at Rs 300 for cars and Rs 150 for two-wheelers.
Upscale localities like Vasant Vihar, Nizamuddin, Defence Colony, Safdarjung Enclave, Hauz Khas and Green Park have been included in the list where the new parking rates will be Rs 250 and Rs 100 for cars and scooters respectively.
No parking charges would be levied for non-motorised vehicles to encourage the use of battery-operated vehicles to keep the environment clean.
Furthermore, street parking and footpath parking will be a cognizable offence leading to confiscation of vehicle and payment of a hefty penalty.
“It is the collective duty of the Centre and the state government to decongest Delhi which is essential for its development. All options will be explored to improve the quality of life in Delhi,” said a senior UD Ministry official.