Over 6k motorists penalised for wrong parking in 5 days; residents allege lack of parking zones

Ranchi: As many as 6,102 vehicle owners were penalised from June 2 to 6 during a drive against various violations of the Motor Vehicles Act, including allegedly keeping vehicles in no-parking zones and parking on roads.However, the drive to decongest and ease vehicular movement has sparked criticism from residents and commuters. They raised concerns over lack of adequate parking facilities and said the absence of infrastructure makes such enforcement measures unfair.Many pointed out that while authorities are quick to impose fines, little has been done to expand designated parking spaces and increase parking zones in proportion to the rising numbers of vehicles.Rajiv Kumar, a commuter at Albert Ekka Chowk, welcomed the police’s intent behind the ongoing drive. “Police are penalising motorists without helmets, registration certificates and other valid documents and for drunk driving. It is commendable, and it will reduce road accidents and fatalities in the city,” he said, but added, “When the city does not have adequate parking spaces, I see no point in penalising motorists for wrong parking.”Kunal Singh, another motorist, said that there is only one designated parking space on the entire stretch from Lalpur Chowk to Kutchery Chowk, in front of a mall. “That parking zone too can accommodate only a handful of two-wheelers. If someone parks their vehicle on road out of necessity and police impose fine for that, how is that justified?” he asked.SP (traffic) Rakesh Singh acknowledged the lack of adequate designated parking spaces in the city. “If someone responsibly parks vehicle beyond the white strips on roads, we are not penalising them. The city has adequate space to accommodate vehicles on roads.”“But many park vehicles on the carriageway, hindering traffic movement. We are continuing the drive to instil basic civic sense among the vehicle owners,” he said.The crackdown against traffic violations began on May 30 and will continue till Sunday, he added.