Mumbai's Free Parking Lots Face Scrutiny Over Unauthorised Charges
Several parking lots in South Mumbai, officially declared free for public use, continue to charge motorists, raising concerns over unauthorised fee collection and governance lapses.
MumbaiParkingUnauthorised ChargesUrban GovernanceCivic ManagementReal Estate MumbaiJun 03, 2025
This development has sparked frustration among drivers who expected relief, only to find themselves paying parking fees at multiple locations that were meant to be free. A recent on-ground verification of six parking lots in South Mumbai revealed that four are still imposing charges, with rates ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 70 per hour. Locations such as Walchand Hirachand Marg in Ballard Estate, the stretch between Grand Hotel and Scindia House, are charging motorists Rs 50 per hour. Meanwhile, Ramjibhai Kamani Marg and Nagindas Master Lane have fee collectors demanding Rs 70 per hour. Horniman Circle, situated between V N Road and Homji Street, also has individuals charging Rs 70 an hour. However, parking at Badruddin Tyabji Marg and Dorabji Tata Marg remains free as mandated.
One motorist, who commutes to the Fort area daily, expressed his dismay: “I assumed parking near Horniman Circle was free, but a person suddenly appeared demanding Rs 140 for two hours. There was no clear signage or official notice about charges.” Another driver shared a similar experience, saying, “Yesterday, I paid Rs 70 at Nagindas Master Lane to a man claiming to be authorised to collect fees. I was pressed for time and could not verify his credentials.” Senior municipal officials acknowledged the issue, stating that once parking contracts end, the civic body usually informs the local police and traffic departments to monitor these sites closely. However, due to ongoing reports of unauthorised collections, a fresh advisory is being issued to relevant authorities to crack down on illegal fee collection. The official clarified that the three-month contract extensions for these parking lots expired on May 31, and during the interim period, no charges were meant to be levied.
The city’s deputy chief engineer (traffic) office is in the process of appointing new agencies to manage these parking sites, either through a short-term three-month contract or a fresh two-year agreement. Until then, the parking lots are to remain free for public use. Experts familiar with urban governance and city infrastructure criticised the current situation. One civic analyst noted, “The areas in question attract heavy footfall due to tourism and heritage significance. It is unacceptable that motorists are paying for services without any legal sanction. This reflects deeper systemic issues involving contractors and officials.”
Calls for transparency and enforcement have grown louder since early May, when multiple residents lodged complaints demanding that pay-and-park facilities be made free after contract expiry. Despite prior sting operations exposing overcharging and irregularities, unauthorised collection of fees continues unchecked, undermining public trust in civic management. This incident highlights the urgent need for stronger oversight mechanisms, clear communication to the public, and sustainable urban mobility policies that align with equitable and eco-friendly city development. Ensuring that parking facilities operate transparently and without exploitation is vital for fostering an inclusive and just urban environment.
As Mumbai prepares to modernise its parking infrastructure in line with sustainable urban goals, this episode serves as a reminder of the challenges in enforcing regulations and protecting citizens’ rights. Civic authorities face mounting pressure to address these irregularities swiftly, guaranteeing that free parking zones remain genuinely free and accessible to all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are some parking lots in South Mumbai still charging fees?
Despite being declared free, some parking lots in South Mumbai continue to charge fees due to unauthorised collectors exploiting the situation after the contracts expired.
What is the current rate of unauthorised parking fees in South Mumbai?
Unauthorised parking fees in South Mumbai range from Rs 50 to Rs 70 per hour at various locations.
What is the civic body doing to address this issue?
The civic body is issuing fresh advisories to relevant authorities to crack down on illegal fee collection and is in the process of appointing new agencies to manage the parking lots.
How can motorists avoid paying unauthorised parking fees?
Motorists should be aware of the official status of parking lots and report any unauthorised fee collection to the local authorities.
What is the long-term plan for parking management in Mumbai?
Mumbai is planning to modernise its parking infrastructure with new contracts and agreements to ensure transparent and free parking facilities where applicable.
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