Congress minister Ramalinga Reddy has flagged concerns over his own government’s proposed parking policy in Bengaluru, particularly the plan to impose an annual roadside parking fee.
However, he cautioned that the proposed annual charges could put an additional financial burden on middle-class and ordinary families. Reddy pointed out that many residents of older buildings and residential areas do not have adequate parking facilities within their premises. several middle-class families living in apartments and older neighbourhoods have limited parking space, the minister has pointed out While some residents with independent houses and larger plots may be able to park their vehicles inside their properties.
Imposing an additional annual parking fee of up to Rs 25,000 could therefore add significantly to their financial burden, Reddy has said.
In a letter to the Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, Reddy said regulating illegal and long-term roadside parking was necessary to address the city’s growing traffic and parking problems. He said such families are already managing expenses related to home and vehicle loans, children’s education, healthcare and daily necessities.
Reddy has urged the government to reconsider the proposed annual parking fee and hold consultations with Bengaluru MLAs, resident associations, organisations and concerned officials before taking a final decision.
