Maharashtra Proposes Parking Certificates for New Cars: A Bold Move to Reduce Congestion
Maharashtra is planning to make parking certificates mandatory for registering new cars. This move aims to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution in busy cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. Under this proposal, buyers must obtain a Certified Parking Area (CPA) certificate before they can register their vehicle. Without this certificate, registration will not be possible.
The rule will first apply in Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, with plans to extend it to other areas in Maharashtra. If successful, similar regulations could emerge in cities like Bengaluru.
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Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis approved the idea during a meeting focused on transforming the state. The plan, developed by State Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar, emphasizes the need to manage the increasing number of vehicles in urban settings.
The Certified Parking Area (CPA) Certificate
To get the CPA certificate, buyers must prove they have a parking space at home or a paid parking lot. If using public parking, they need to pay at least one year’s parking fee in advance. The CPA certificate must be renewed each year. This rule will also apply to older vehicles when renewing fitness certificates, but it does not affect two-wheelers and three-wheelers.
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Local governments and housing societies will work together to identify suitable parking options. This approach draws inspiration from cities like Tokyo, London, New York, and Singapore, where similar rules have helped reduce congestion.
Maharashtra has experienced a rapid increase in vehicle numbers, causing significant parking shortages and traffic issues. Experts warn that without intervention, air pollution in places like Mumbai could worsen dramatically.
Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar stated that this rule is crucial for managing the vehicle population and improving public transport. However, challenges may arise, as some critics believe it could negatively impact low-income residents and those living in older buildings with limited parking options.
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