In a decisive move to address the escalating parking chaos and narrowing lanes in its residential neighborhoods, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a major initiative. On Wednesday, the corporation decided to conduct a thorough survey across various wards to formulate concrete plans for regulating both parking and rampant commercial activities.
A City Choked by Congestion
During a corporation meeting, BMC corporators raised serious concerns about this burgeoning problem affecting every lane and bylane in the city. A marathon discussion was held, focusing first on identifying the specific areas and the intensity of the issue. Mayor Sulochana Das highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating that the parking issue is haunting Bhubaneswar.
She pointed out that institutions, such as hospitals, are not cooperating fully by allowing all vehicles to park within their facilities. This forces visitors to park on the roads. Compounding the problem, the proliferation of eateries and shops near these institutions leads to more roadside parking, further narrowing the already cramped lanes.
BMC's Multi-Pronged Strategy
As part of the inspection, BMC officials will also verify if commercial establishments are flouting norms. This includes checking for valid trade licence certificates and whether they are paying the appropriate holding tax under the commercial slab.
A senior BMC officer explained that the extension of private residential areas for commercial use is a key concern. The solution being explored involves creating market clusters in localities with excessive commercial activity or identifying multiple parking lots to direct vehicles away from shop fronts. The core idea is to balance commercial growth with public convenience.
Ground Zero: The Most Affected Localities
The northern zone of Bhubaneswar, stretching from Jayadev Vihar to KIIT Square, is experiencing significant chaos. Localities like Niladri Vihar, Sailashree Vihar, Chandrasekharpur, and Maitri Vihar are transforming from residential pockets into bustling commercial hubs.
City-based architect Debashis Rana emphasized the severity, noting that even hotels and convention halls are emerging in densely populated areas. The lack of parking space leads to vehicles clogging the roadsides, making it difficult for residents to navigate and sometimes resulting in altercations. He stressed the urgent need for a permanent solution.
The problem is not confined to the north. Posh areas like Sahid Nagar, Satya Nagar, Bapuji Nagar, and Old Town are also suffocating under similar parking and congestion pressures, according to sources.
