No roadside parking in South Mumbai starting next month

Buses and heavy vehicles wont be allowed to park on the roadside. FILE PIC

After going back and forth on its 'no on-street parking' policy, the traffic police have finally decided to implement the ban starting February 1. Last year, in September, the traffic police was forced to retract the parking ban within two days of its implementation after the mounting resistance from bus and truck associations.

Now, after speaking to all stakeholders and agencies, the police have once again come up with a fresh parking and traffic policy for the city. While the parking ban will continue, the police have lifted restrictions on school buses and heavy vehicles carrying essential goods in south Mumbai, which is in dire need of decongestion due to the ongoing Metro 3 construction work.

While all heavy vehicles and private buses carrying passengers are restricted from entering south Mumbai from 11 am to 5 pm, restrictions have been relaxed for school buses, ambulances and vehicles supplying essential services. When contacted, Amitesh Kumar, joint commissioner (traffic), said, "This is in the interest of citizens. We aim to ensure smooth and congestion-free traffic in the city."