Restraint will add to traffic woes: Expert

International experts think the traffic restraint system (TRS) will create more
confusion.

German parking expert Dr Irmscher Ilja told DNA that limiting vehicular movement in this way could add to traffic woes. Ilja, a public-appointed expert in Berlin Chamber of Commerce, was in the city to scrutinise technical bids received for creation of eight multi-level automated parking lots on BMC plots. Excerpts from his discussion with DNA

On the TRS idea
Models that are not planned keeping the user in mind are meaningless. Every restriction in traffic movement must have a good reason for it to be sustainable. Unless alternatives roads are made accessible, radical measures like these should not be adopted

Parking space crunch is a major issue in Mumbai. What about a policy to increase parking space and limit cars on road? 
While it is necessary to build an efficient public transport, regulated parking arrangements must be made by the city administration to accommodate two and four-wheelers. Every individual who takes a car to work, recreation, and other activities, needs parking space, which should ideally be close to the place of visit. Planning of parking spaces needs to be incorporated in city’s development policy.

Parking is almost free at public parking lots in Mumbai, unlike that in developed countries. What should be the right price for parking?
It is necessary to regulate parking space in areas where it is in short supply. Parking prohibitions and parking charges must be strictly pursued in such cases. Pricing should be commercial in nature.

How sustainable is off-street parking solutions?
One technology will not be a sufficient solution for parking problems. Modern automatic off-street parking systems offer the highest technology but are the most expensive solutions. They are justified where space is in short supply. In Mumbai, it is about shifting cars parked on streets to proper parking lots. Number of parking spaces need not necessarily be increased.