The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) decision to introduce paid parking at the lot outside Joggers Park on Carter Road, Bandra, has sparked a significant debate among local residents. The new measure has divided the community, with one faction supporting the initiative as a means to reduce car usage, while the opposing group argues it will limit access to one of the city’s few open spaces.
“When the BMC assumed control of Joggers Park in 2017, they removed the entry fee to promote the use of open spaces,” stated a former corporator of the area. “On one hand, they promote the health benefits of open spaces for citizens, but on the other, they are increasing the cost of accessing these spaces. The parking lot is frequently used by visitors to Joggers Park in the early morning and evening. Charging a minimum of INR 45 for each visit will either deter visitors or force them to park on Carter Road, exacerbating traffic congestion.”The former corporator highlighted that many visitors are senior citizens who travel from distant areas such as Khar and Santacruz to participate in laughter and yoga clubs. On Monday, he addressed a letter to the assistant commissioner of H West ward, voicing his opposition to the decision. “This move is being driven by the modest revenue that the small parking lot will generate,” he asserted. “No consultation was held with the park’s visitors. If the BMC does not respond positively, we will launch a signature campaign.”
A senior citizen who regularly visits the park echoed these sentiments. “I have around 60 to 70 senior citizen friends who drive here, park for about an hour, exercise, and then leave,” he explained. “Although I live on Turner Road and own a car, I prefer taking a rickshaw to the park daily for convenience and safety. If the BMC removed the entry fee, why are they now imposing parking fees?”When questioned about the potential impact of the paid parking proposal on park attendance, he suggested it should not deter visitors. “People can be dropped off, use public transport, or demand better footpaths and walk,” he said. “However, it should discourage those who don’t visit the park but utilise its parking lot, as well as locals who treat the lot as a private parking space.
