The Municipal Corporation (MC) of Chandigarh is planning to implement a new smart parking system, which would result in a Rs 5 premium for cash payments at the city’s 89 paid parking lots. The MC invited proposals from August 2 to 23 for the design, development, management, and maintenance of the parking facilities.
The new system will introduce changes to parking charges, although the existing rates for vehicles will remain unchanged. For the first four hours, parking fees will be set at Rs 7 for two-wheelers and Rs 14 for four-wheelers, with the first 20 minutes designated as free for pick-and-drop services at 84 parking lots, excluding those near malls.
To promote digital payments and discourage cash transactions, the MC will impose a Rs 5 fee on cash payments across all vehicle categories and slabs. Payment options will include QR code scanning and debit/credit cards, with certain parking areas accessible only to vehicles equipped with FASTag. The MC believes this initiative will enhance transparency and help curb corrupt practices among vendors and parking staff.
In light of the ongoing parking shortage, the rates for underground parking facilities will be set at a minimal Rs 5. Additionally, monthly passes will be offered at Rs 300 for underground parking and Rs 400 for surface parking.
The implementation of slab rates and other components will take effect only after the smart parking system is fully operational. Until then, the current parking rates will remain in force.
Previously, the BJP-led MC had proposed doubling rates for vehicles registered outside the Tricity area and allowing free parking for two-wheelers. However, the AAP-led MC later approved free parking across all categories. The Punjab Governor and UT Administrator, Banwarilal Purohit, ultimately decided against free parking and the double rate for outstation vehicles while endorsing the new smart parking initiative.
This transition aims to optimize parking space utilization and improve the overall parking experience in Chandigarh
