One of Jaipur's busiest shopping destinations, the Gaurav Towers (GT) market complex, is embroiled in a significant parking management crisis. Visitors and shopkeepers alike are facing daily confusion and inconvenience due to the irregular and inconsistent implementation of revised parking charges mandated by the civic body.
New Parking Rules, Old Implementation Chaos
The root of the problem lies in a fee revision by the Jaipur Municipal Corporation (JMC) that came into effect in early December. The earlier time-based system, which charged Rs 10 for two-wheelers and Rs 20 for four-wheelers for up to three hours, was scrapped. It was replaced with a flat rate structure: Rs 20 for two-wheelers and Rs 40 for four-wheelers, regardless of duration.
However, on the ground, this change appears to exist only on paper. Parking attendants at the GT market complex continue to use the old parking slips. They often issue half-slips, a practice that effectively bypasses the new, higher rates and prevents proper enforcement and revenue collection as per the revised policy.
Absence of Clarity Fuels Visitor Anger
The situation is exacerbated by a complete absence of clear signage displaying the updated charges. With no official boards in sight, thousands of daily visitors are left in the dark about the correct fees, leading to frequent disputes with attendants. Many end up paying incorrect amounts, incurring unnecessary expenses or facing arguments over the rightful charge.
When confronted, JMC officials presented a contradictory picture. Revenue Deputy Commissioner Manoj Sharma stated that the revised rates were notified through a new tender and that boards displaying the updated charges were installed. A visit to the site, however, revealed no such signage in the mall's parking area. On the continued use of old slips, Sharma redirected the matter to the Malviya Nagar Zone. The zone's deputy commissioner, Mukut Singh, claimed he was unaware of the problem altogether.
Shopkeepers Bear the Brunt of Civic Apathy
The parking chaos has consequences beyond mere inconvenience. Local shopkeepers have voiced serious concerns, stating that the poor management and constant disputes are negatively impacting customer footfall and the overall shopping experience. They argue that the confusion at the entrance discourages potential customers, directly affecting their business. They have urgently appealed to the civic body to ensure uniform implementation of the parking rules and install clear, visible information boards to resolve the standoff.
The ongoing mess at GT market highlights a significant gap between policy formulation and execution by the Jaipur Municipal Corporation. Until the administration ensures strict on-ground compliance and clear communication, visitors and businesses at one of the city's prime commercial hubs will continue to suffer.
