A simple act of consideration by a shopping mall in Bangalore has captured the attention of social media, sparking a widespread conversation about inclusivity in public spaces. An Instagram Reel showcasing a parking spot specifically reserved for 'Mothers-to-be' at a Nexus Mall in the city has gone viral, drawing both applause and some skeptical remarks.
Social Media Applauds a Thoughtful Gesture
The video, shared by an Instagram user, highlighted the dedicated parking bay located close to the mall entrance. The user commended the initiative, writing, "Hats off to Nexus Malls in Bangalore, where they have kept a separate space for women, especially mothers-to-be. All other malls in India should implement the same." They elaborated on the practical benefits, noting that as pregnancy advances, a woman's centre of gravity shifts, making walking long distances challenging. These spots, being wider and nearer to entrances, help prevent physical strain.
"It's just a small gesture to make a public space safer for both the mom and the baby!" the user added. The post resonated with many, with comments like "It's veryyyyy very helpful" pouring in. Others pointed out that similar facilities exist in malls in cities like Vijayawada, and some claimed it's available in many Indian malls already.
Not All Reactions Are Positive
However, the initiative also attracted sarcasm and criticism. Some users questioned how the status would be verified, with one joking about "fake tummy" filled with fast food. Another cynical comment framed it as a marketing tactic by malls to target expectant parents. "Why should a car declare in public that they have a member expecting a child?" asked one user. A further remark suggested the spots could be misused by others.
The Wider Context of Pink Parking in India
The concept of reserved parking for women is not new to Bengaluru. The city saw the rise of 'Pink Parking' zones, notably on Brigade Road, where the first 15 slots were designated for female drivers. These spaces are typically closer to exits, well-lit, and under CCTV surveillance for enhanced safety, especially at night. Many private complexes and malls have since adopted similar sections.
Spaces for expectant mothers take this a step further by offering wider bays near lifts or main doors, marked with clear signage or a pregnancy icon. Crucially, this concept extends beyond Bengaluru. In India, Kolkata's South City Mall and Thiruvananthapuram's Lulu Mall have similar women-only parking facilities. Internationally, the trend began in Germany in the 1990s and spread to countries like South Korea, China, and Saudi Arabia.
The viral post has successfully turned a spotlight on how urban infrastructure can be subtly yet significantly adapted to cater to the needs of specific groups, making public spaces more accessible and empathetic for everyone.
