The Maharashtra government is considering a landmark policy that will require individuals to prove availability of a parking space before buying a car. The proposal, aimed at addressing the growing problems of traffic congestion in urban areas, was announced by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik.
Explaining the reason for this proposed law, Sarnaik pointed out the increase in traffic caused by the increase in traffic, especially in cities with many people.
“People who own one-room apartments, which are often bought with borrowed money, buy more cars and park them on public roads because of the lack of private parking spaces,” he said.
The minister emphasized that illegal parking of vehicles often leads to negative consequences, including disruption of emergency services such as ambulances and fire brigades.
“In many communities, open spaces are occupied by parked cars, leaving no room for critical services to function properly during emergencies,” he said.
Although Sarnaik assured that the policy will not discriminate economically weaker sections, he clarified that car buyers who do not have public parking spaces can still buy cars if they have public parking spaces.
“We are not saying that the poor should not buy cars, but parking arrangements should be made,” he added.
Sarnaik acknowledged that the proposed policy may face criticism, but said the measures are important to combat traffic congestion.
“Some will appreciate this decision, others will criticize it and it may be trampled on, but the government must take steps to solve the road problem,” he said.
The minister also highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve public transport to reduce dependence on private vehicles, citing the development of municipal railways and other services.
Additionally, Sarnaik talked about his “dream project” to launch a cable taxi system in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), an idea that received thanks from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
The proposed parking policy will be discussed with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde for further discussion and possible implementation. Sarnaik likened this goal to proper planning, saying, “As families plan expenses before having a baby, people should make arrangements for their car needs, including parking.