In a decisive move to tackle worsening traffic gridlock, the Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) has finalized a plan to introduce paid parking across twelve key locations in the city. The initiative, aimed at curbing long-term parking and freeing up public spaces, is slated for implementation by March 2025.
Identified Zones and Pricing Structure
The council has pinpointed several congested areas for the designated pay-parking zones. These include the city bus stand, the vicinity of Almeida High School, Gaunekar building, the police station area, Kazi building, the stretch from Bhawani Sadan to Upper Bazar, and Ponda Tisk. PMC chairperson Virendra Dhavalikar emphasized the urgency of the measure, stating that the council hopes pay-parking will significantly reduce traffic obstructions in the city, which are desperately needed given the current congestion levels.
The approved pricing model is straightforward: Rs 5 per hour for two-wheelers and Rs 10 per hour for four-wheelers. This decision follows an initial resolution passed in December 2023, where the council first proposed the paid parking system as a deterrent to motorists who occupy public spaces for extended periods, sometimes the entire day.
Addressing Core Parking Problems
The need for intervention is clear from prevailing parking habits. Many commuters who work outside Ponda leave their vehicles at the old bus stand or in open spaces near the Ponda police station, leading to a full occupancy that leaves no room for other motorists. This creates bottlenecks and frustration for visitors and residents alike.
Similarly, at Upper Bazar, drivers often park along the roadside despite the availability of parking spaces on the ground floor of the market complex. This haphazard parking contributes directly to traffic snarls. With the number of vehicles in town continuously rising, the shortage of parking spots has become a critical civic issue.
Long-Term Goals and Expected Impact
The primary objective of the pay-parking facility is to discourage all-day parking and ensure a higher turnover of parking spots, making them available for more users. By attaching a nominal cost to parking, the PMC aims to motivate people to use spaces more judiciously and explore alternative transport options where possible.
The council's resolution to roll out paid parking across the town reflects a proactive approach to urban management. If successful, the system could not only alleviate immediate congestion but also generate revenue for further civic improvements. As Ponda grows, such measures are seen as essential for maintaining orderly traffic flow and reclaiming public spaces for the community.
