In a significant decision, the South Goa District Collector has reportedly notified parking areas for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) at public places across the district. This is a step in the right direction and needs to be emulated in North Goa as well. Parking slots reserved for disabled persons are extremely important because they allow people with mobility limitations or other challenges to have safe access to buildings, shopping malls, etc. No parking fees should be charged for PwDs driving the vehicle. Commercial establishments and starred hotels should provide free parking for senior citizens and PwDs. These parking slots need to be wider than standard parking spaces. The parking space needs to be in front of or near the entrance to the building or facility. It is common knowledge that people who do not have any mobility issues, park their vehicles in parking spaces earmarked for PwDs only to avoid paying for parking or to save time. In addition to imposing a penalty for wrong parking, it may be necessary to tow away the illegally parked vehicles. Citizens need to report to the police of any such wrong parking.
