Citizens miffed with plan to fine vehicles parked in restricted areas

Last week,the standing committee had passed a proposal seeking imposition of heavy fine on vehicles parked in restricted zones. The fine ranges from Rs 1,000 (for a “wrongly” parked two-wheeler) to 5,000 (for unauthorised parking of heavy vehicle). Besides,the motorists and two- wheeler riders would also be penalised for driving in the BRT routes.

Justifying the heavy fine,standing committee Chairman Navnath Jagtap said the decision has been taken after consultations with traffic police. However,what has surprised activists is that the committee arrived at the decision after discussions with traffic police whom it had attacked for taking bribe from illegal passenger service.

“First,they say traffic police take bribe. Then they listen to what they say. This is something unacceptable,” said civic activist Shridhar Chalkha.

Shiv Sena leader in PCMC Shrirang Barne said he was shocked by the committee’s decision.

“This will give traffic police an opportunity to harass citizens. Traffic police will only be on the look out for vehicles parked in no-parking zones. Once they spot the vehicles in the restricted areas,they will argue and arrive at a compromise amount,which will encourage corruption. Every body knows how traffic police functions. Where was the need for the PCMC to play into the hands of traffic police. The Shiv Sena will oppose this move when the proposal is put forth the general body meeting,” he said.

Even the ruling NCP has opposed the proposal. NCP Pimpri-Chinchwad president Yogesh Behl said his party does not approve of the proposal.

“It is wrong to impose such heavy fines and it is an anti-people measure. NCP will ensure the proposal is amended,” he said. Civic officials said part of the total fine amount will be used for purchasing equipment for the traffic police department and the remaining will be given to the civic body.