SDMC parking policy: Smart infra, pedestrian-friendly
From app-based lot booking system to pedestrian-friendly model parking zones, the civic body in south Delhi is ramping up its...
From app-based lot booking system to pedestrian-friendly model parking zones, the civic body in south Delhi is ramping up it's "smart parking" infrastructure while encouraging people to use public transport to reach markets. A top official of the South Delhi Municipal Corporation said it has adopted a "community-led development policy" under which marketing associations and resident welfare associations (RWAs) are being engaged to come out with "win-win" initiatives.
"And, results have been very positive. A free e-rickshaw service has been started recently by the Central Market Association of Lajpat Nagar for providing last-mile connectivity for shoppers who are coming to the place via metro," he told PTI. Ten e-rickshaws are currently being used and it also helps decongest the place, which makes shopping a more pleasant experience. "In all great cities, be it London, Paris, Berlin, Shanghai, streets in market areas are kept either pedestrianized or as much traffic-free as possible.
Incidentally, the SDMC is the nodal agency engaged for the parking management area plan (PMAP) for the national capital, being firmed up by the Delhi government to decongest the city and also make it pedestrian-friendly. According to the plan, civic bodies in Delhi will levy one-third charges for multi-level parking facilities compared to surface parking rates, and parking within 25 m from roundabouts and traffic intersections would be disallowed, among other measures.
"We are also in the process of having 'parking mitras' who will help people and also raise awareness about the policy," he said.