Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, Dec 2: Parking operators in Jamshedpur are reportedly engaging in unlawful practices, forcibly collecting money from vehicles parked in no-parking zones, especially in Bistupur and Sakchi. Despite the presence of designated parking areas and clear no-parking signs, these operators are ignoring the rules and charging unsuspecting vehicle owners, sometimes resorting to violence when challenged. The situation has become so severe that even vehicles parked outside authorized zones are being charged, with no intervention from local authorities.
A frequent scene of this misconduct unfolds near the P&M Mall in Bistupur, where parking attendants demand payment from two-wheeler and four-wheeler owners despite a no-parking signboard installed by the Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC). These operators are also parking vehicles beyond the road’s demarcated limits, leading to significant traffic jams. The congestion caused by 8-10 vehicles parked in a cluster not only obstructs the flow of traffic but also results in accidents and injuries to pedestrians.
Locals have voiced their frustration over the issue. Monu Singh, a tea vendor in Bistupur, shared, “In the evenings, parking attendants park their vehicles right up to my shop, causing constant traffic jams.” Rajesh Kumar, a vehicle owner, added, “I park my car outside the designated parking area in P&M Mall, but they always forcibly charge me, claiming it’s a parking area.”
Despite these complaints, the practice continues with apparent knowledge of both the local police and JNAC officials. In response to the situation, Chandragupta Ashokvardhan, the Accounts Officer of JNAC, assured that strict action would be taken against any parking agent who exceeds the designated area. “A specific parking area has been allocated. Any agent found using more space than permitted will face stringent consequences,” he stated.
The authorities are under pressure to address this issue swiftly to prevent further inconvenience and ensure adherence to parking regulations.
