BMC Yet to Take Final Call on Mall Parking Fees

Bhubaneswar: Amid rising concerns over parking fees being charged in shopping malls, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Chanchal Rana on Thursday clarified that no final decision has been taken on the issue.

Rana said while the matter has been brought to the notice of the civic body, there is no uniform legal framework to regulate such charges. “We cannot say whether collecting parking fees is legal or illegal. Different courts, including consumer forums, High Courts, and even the Supreme Court, have issued varying judgments in different states,” he noted.

The Commissioner further explained that both the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) and BMC have passed resolutions on parking management in the past, which will be reviewed before framing a policy.

“Parking spaces should not be used for commercial gain. As per existing provisions, parking fees cannot be charged. At the same time, if parking is completely free, there are chances of misuse. Our aim is to ensure public convenience while preventing misuse of space,” Rana said.

He added that discussions have already been held with mall owners, and consultations with legal authorities will take place before finalising a uniform policy.