Chandigarh's Pass-Based Paid Parking System Set for Launch with Bank of Baroda
The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation has finalized Bank of Baroda to roll out a new pass-based paid parking system across the city. This move marks a significant step toward implementing the long-awaited project.
Monthly Passes and Parking Lots
Under the finalized plan, the system will cover 74 paid parking lots located throughout Chandigarh. Bank of Baroda has agreed to issue monthly passes for commuters at fixed rates.
- Four-wheelers will pay Rs 500 per month.
- Two-wheelers will pay Rs 250 per month.
A single monthly pass will be valid for use across all 74 parking lots, providing flexibility for residents.
Implementation Timeline and Next Steps
A senior MC official revealed that the civic body has already issued the allotment letter to Bank of Baroda and completed related groundwork. The next crucial step involves holding a meeting, most likely on Monday, under the chairmanship of the MC commissioner.
This meeting will resolve remaining formalities and pending issues, including the specific terms and conditions associated with the system's rollout.
Digital Application and Technical Framework
Commuters will be able to obtain monthly passes through digital channels. The MC intends to provide a QR code system along with a link on its official website. Applicants can use these tools to apply and secure their passes for parking in any of the city's paid lots.
The civic body has thoroughly studied technical aspects to ensure the system operates transparently and functions smoothly. Bank of Baroda will provide PoS (point of sale) machines to the MC for slip-based payments at parking lots.
A joint account between the bank and the MC will be opened to ensure proper monitoring of revenue generated from the parking system. The MC estimates that around 180 to 200 PoS machines will be required for the project.
Continuity in Operations and Revenue Expectations
Existing MC employees, hired on an outsourced basis to manage parking lots, will continue their duties under the new system. They will use the PoS machines provided by Bank of Baroda to collect parking fees, ensuring a smooth transition to the new model.
According to rough MC records, the civic body currently receives around Rs 1.20 crore per month from paid parking lots. Approximately Rs 60 lakh of this amount is spent on salaries for employees managing these facilities.
With the introduction of the new Rs 500 and Rs 250 monthly pass-based parking system, the MC expects to generate a substantial increase in revenue from the parking lots. The single parking pass system is also anticipated to streamline parking operations, improve overall service delivery, and offer residents a unified and hassle-free parking experience across Chandigarh.
