The much-awaited inauguration of a modern two-storey underground parking facility in Jaipur, built at a cost of Rs 50 crore, has been unexpectedly postponed. The facility, constructed by the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) opposite the Rajasthan High Court, missed its scheduled inauguration by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma this past Monday. The delay stems from the Jaipur Municipal Corporation (JMC), which is set to operate the lot, seeking consultations with advocates from the High Court and the Bar Association before finalizing parking charges.
Consultation with Primary Users Causes Delay
Manoj Verma, the Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) of JMC, clarified the rationale behind the postponement. He stated that since advocates are expected to be the primary users of this strategic parking facility, the corporation wishes to take their input on the parking fees. "We have forwarded a request to the registrar of the high court to arrange a meeting with the members of the Bar association," Verma explained. He added that the planned meeting could not be held earlier due to the Bar association elections scheduled for December 11.
Verma expressed optimism that the issues would be sorted out soon. However, with the Rajasthan High Court scheduled to go on vacation from Thursday, the crucial meeting with the advocates is now likely to occur only after the court reopens. This timeline pushes the potential inauguration further into the future.
Traffic Impact and Project Status
Officials indicated that a major traffic crisis on the busy Bhagwan Das Road is not anticipated during this interim period, as the High Court will be closed for vacation, naturally reducing vehicular pressure. Meanwhile, JDA officials confirmed that the construction of the parking lot is nearly complete, with only last-minute finishing works ongoing.
An official emphasized that the facility would be inaugurated under JDA's management only, following the handover. The project was announced by CM Bhajan Lal Sharma in the state budget for the fiscal year 2023-24. The JDA commenced construction of this significant infrastructure project in March 2024, aiming to alleviate chronic parking woes in the high-footfall area surrounding the High Court.
Looking Ahead
The delay highlights the practical challenges in launching public infrastructure, where stakeholder consultation is key to smooth operation. While the fully constructed facility stands ready, its public utility remains on hold until the pricing mechanism is agreed upon with its main user group. All eyes are now on the post-vacation period when JMC officials and advocates are expected to sit together to resolve the parking charge issue, finally paving the way for the lot to open its gates to the public and decongest the area.
