Team Goemkarponn
MORMUGAO: The Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) on Wednesday launched a pay parking system along all sides of the MMC building in Vasco, marking the first such initiative in the city. The pilot project was inaugurated on the occasion of Makar Sankranti in the presence of MMC Chairperson Girish Borker and City ward councillor Shami Salkar.
While the initiative aims to regulate parking in one of Vasco’s most congested areas, the need for such a system has become evident due to growing complaints from motorists. On many occasions, car owners are unable to find parking space as two-wheelers are routinely parked in slots earmarked for cars, leaving designated bike parking either underused or ignored. Residents and office-goers have often flagged that indiscriminate parking has added to traffic congestion and inconvenience around the municipal complex.
Speaking on the occasion, MMC Chairperson Girish Borker said the pay parking system was being introduced for the first time in Vasco on a trial basis to bring order to the chaotic parking situation. “The objective is not revenue generation alone but ensuring parking discipline in a busy commercial zone like Vasco,” Borker said.
Borker appealed to citizens to cooperate with the civic body and strictly follow parking norms. He issued a clear warning that two-wheelers parked in wrong or unauthorised areas would be lifted. “Vehicles found violating parking rules will be towed away and a fine of ₹700 will be imposed, of which ₹500 will go to the traffic department and ₹200 will be charged by the MMC towards lifting and towing,” he said.
Ward councillor Shami Salkar said the initiative was planned keeping in mind the persistent parking chaos in Vasco city. “People often complain that there is no parking space, but at the same time, many do not respect the markings. This system is meant to bring discipline and ensure fair use of available space,” she said.
The MMC has indicated that the effectiveness of the pilot project will be reviewed before extending the pay parking system to other parts of Vasco.
