A citizens’ organisation has raised concerns over a proposal to build a dedicated parking facility for corporators of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), suggesting instead that elected representatives be encouraged to rely on public transport such as metro and buses.
The recommendation comes after the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) proposed creating a parking space following incidents where around 20 corporators were fined by the traffic department for parking vehicles on the road outside the civic headquarters.
In a letter addressed to Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide, the NGO Conservation Action Trust opposed the move, advocating for a more sustainable approach to mobility. The group argued that public representatives should lead by example in promoting the use of mass transit systems instead of expanding parking infrastructure in an already congested area.
The organisation also expressed reservations about another reported civic proposal to construct a dedicated Gymkhana for IAS officers on salt-pan land in Wadala, citing concerns over land use and environmental impact.
In its communication, the group stated, “We understand from recent news reports that there is a move to convert the existing BMC Gymkhana opposite CSMT to a new meeting hall with parking for corporators. Assuming that the news reports are factually correct, we would suggest that the Gymkhana should be improved and made available not just to BMC staff but also to government staffers so that the utilisation improves.”
The letter highlights a broader debate around urban planning priorities in Mumbai, particularly the balance between accommodating private vehicles and promoting public transport. With increasing congestion and limited space, citizen groups argue that policies should focus on reducing dependency on cars while improving access to sustainable mobility options across the city.
Source: The Indian Express
