The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation (MC) has taken a step towards modernizing parking management in the city introducing digital payments at 71 parking lots. This initiative, which rolled out on Wednesday, aims to streamline the parking experience for visitors and improve revenue collection for the MC.
Gone are the days of searching for exact change or fumbling with cash. Visitors to these designated parking lots can now pay their parking fees conveniently using their smartphones and QR code scanners. This cashless system is expected to not only enhance ease of use but also ensure greater transparency and accuracy in revenue collection by reducing cash handling.
The MC has partnered with Jana Small Finance Bank Lt. to handle the digital transactions. This move is expected to minimize leakages and ensure that all collected parking fees are properly recorded.
Currently, the MC manages 89 parking lots across Chandigarh, with over 16,000 equivalent car spaces (ECS). These lots cater to various vehicle categories, each with its own designated parking fee. Two-wheeler parking remains the most affordable option at Rs 7, followed by non-commercial four-wheelers at Rs 14. Light commercial vehicles, minibuses, service jeeps, cabs, taxis, and three-wheelers are charged Rs 28, while tourist buses and heavy commercial vehicles have the highest fee of Rs 70.
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The specific locations of the 71 parking lots offering digital payments haven’t been officially released by the MC yet. However, reports suggest the initiative covers prominent sectors like 5, 7, 8, 9, 17, 2, 22, 26, 34, 35, and 43, along with Manimajra and parking areas near multiplexes.
This move towards digital parking aligns with the growing trend of cashless transactions in India. By offering a convenient and secure payment option, the MC hopes to encourage more people to utilize designated parking spaces, potentially leading to better traffic management and reduced congestion in the city.
However, some residents have expressed concerns about the digital divide. Not everyone in Chandigarh may have access to smartphones or be comfortable with using QR code technology. The MC might need to consider alternative payment methods, such as contactless cars or dedicated kiosks, to ensure inclusivity for all users.
