MARGAO
During its ordinary meeting on August 22, 2022, the Council approved the phased introduction of pay parking at specific locations in Margao and Fatorda. MMC officials were told to review the Traffic Cell's proposal and determine the parking rates.
An Audit report, however, has lamented that the ground reality has not changed for the better. The audit conducted by the Accountant General observed that the feasibility study to determine the demand for parking where traffic chaos was observed during the day; layout and design plan for the parking facility; number of parking spaces; determining the pricing structure for parking, notification regarding introduction of pay parking for general public, etc, has not been conducted by the MMC.
The Traffic Cell, Margao had proposed on April 8, 2020 a pay-parking system, initially for two-wheelers and four-wheelers. The Cell had identified 21 spots to open for pay parking, accommodating 226 vehicles for systematic management and enhanced safety.
In this respect, the audit team conducted a joint site inspection on November 6, 2023 by the audit team along with MMC officials at the six parking lots (out of 21) proposed by Traffic Cell, Margao and found that though the parking boards were displayed, the designated parking spaces for each four-wheeler/two-wheeler parking were not painted on roads. Similarly, the audit found that notice boards mentioning the reserved parking for disabled and senior citizens were not found at 10 identified places.
That’s not all. The audit observed that four-wheeler/two-wheeler vehicles were found to be parked in an unorganised manner in some places in the city. The team also noticed illegal parking at many places in the absence of proper parking facilities.
When the audit brought the ground reality to the MMC’s attention, the council replied that it would inspect the proposed pay parking slots/areas in coordination with the Traffic Police to verify the feasibility of the same, promising to implement the pay-parking facility in a phased manner in Margao and Fatorda.
Audit observations: *The introduction of pay parking would bring several benefits, including organized parking, enhanced security, reduced congestion, and discouragement of long-term parking. Additionally, it would generate revenue for the Municipality, contributing to the improvement of public services and maintenance of parking facilities.
*Under section 322A of the Goa Municipalities Act, 1968, the council must plan for economic development and social justice. It has the authority to perform functions and implement schemes related to matters listed in Schedule X. The tenth matter in the schedule focuses on improving public amenities, including tasks like managing parking lots.
*Margao faces heavy year-round vehicular traffic due to its key government offices, district court, collectorate, and tourist attractions. The city's railway station serves as a major entry/exit point for tourists travelling to/from other Indian cities. The interstate bus terminus and increased traffic from NH 66 further contribute to congestion in the heart of Margao. In recent years, Margao has witnessed a surge in high-rise buildings and commercial establishments without allocated parking, straining existing spaces. Unorganized parking in the city centre further reduces efficiency.
