Sambalpur: Strong Opposition to Paid Parking in Sambalpur; Rohit Pujari Demands Withdrawal of Paid Parking, Warns for Protests
Sambalpur: The introduction of paid parking at the Gole Bazaar area in Sambalpur has sparked strong opposition from the public. Amid parking fee collection today, some places even witnessed clashes between fee collectors and citizens. Many people argue that instead of offering free parking, the city administration is unfairly charging fees.
BJD’s Response to the Parking Fee
The BJD party also reacted strongly to the issue. BJD district president, Engineer Rohit Pujari, stated that Sambalpur, a crucial city in western Odisha, should be advancing in development. However, narrow roads between prominent areas like Ainthapali to Municipality Chowk and Laxmi Talkies Chowk to Bhutapada Chowk are creating congestion. Imposing sudden parking fees without designating specific parking spaces has received widespread criticism. Pujari also highlighted how street vendors were removed without providing alternative setups, and many residents were displaced, losing their homes. He warned that if the parking fee is not withdrawn, BJD would launch a movement soon.
Parking Problems Worsening in Sambalpur
Sambalpur has long faced a severe shortage of parking spaces, which has forced people to park their vehicles along the roads. While several new malls have been built, some still lack dedicated parking spaces, worsening the parking situation. With an increasing number of street vendors occupying roadsides, the parking crisis is escalating. The public has been demanding a permanent solution to the issue for years.
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Paid Parking Under the Flyover
Rather than creating new parking spaces, Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) decided to impose parking fees under the Golbazaar flyover and awarded contracts for fee collection. Now, people have to pay a parking fee of Rs. 10 for two-wheelers, Rs. 30 for three-wheelers, and Rs. 50 for four-wheelers, whereas parking was previously free in these areas. The SMC’s move to charge parking fees without offering dedicated facilities has led to considerable dissatisfaction among the public.
Inadequate Parking at Malls and Road Encroachments
Several malls in Sambalpur lack designated parking spaces, forcing people to park along the streets when visiting them. Although there are regulations in place, enforcement against non-compliant malls is minimal, according to public complaints. Additionally, many roads and drains are encroached upon, making traffic movement even more challenging.
Public Reaction and Concerns
Many concerned citizens have expressed that instead of resolving major problems like road congestion, introducing paid parking only adds financial burdens on the public. Attempts were made to bring the issue to the attention of Municipal Commissioner Bedbhushan, but these efforts have yet to yield results.
