Maharashtra May Link Vehicle Ownership to Parking Availability: Fadnavis

Maharashtra May Link Vehicle Ownership to Parking Availability: Fadnavis
Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has proposed linking vehicle ownership to parking availability as a measure to curb rising congestion in the state. He emphasized the need for a structured parking policy, particularly in cities like Mumbai, Thane, and Pune.
Fadnavis suggested integrating all parking areas into a single digital platform, ensuring better utilization of existing public parking lots. “Many parking spaces in Mumbai remain unused. We aim to introduce a policy where individuals without designated parking may not be allowed to purchase a vehicle,” he stated.
As an alternative, he proposed an app-based system that would allow individuals without parking facilities to rent spaces. “This initiative will help curb illegal roadside parking, reduce traffic congestion, and minimize accidents,” he added. Fadnavis credited state Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik for the initiative.
Regarding concerns over the guardian minister for Raigad district, Fadnavis clarified that he, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, would jointly oversee the district’s administration. “With all three of us managing it, there is no cause for concern,” he assured.
Last month, State Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar disclosed that the government is considering making proof of certified parking space mandatory for new vehicle registrations. A proposal has already been sent to the state government for approval.
Fadnavis made these remarks while laying the foundation stone for the upcoming RTO Parivahan Bhavan in Worli. He also highlighted efforts to phase out older vehicles, revealing that 18,000 government-owned vehicles are being scrapped to reduce pollution. “We have initiated automatic testing and scrapping centers, starting with government vehicles,” he said.