Colaba locals fret over issue of double parking, say it increases during events at nearby locations
Colaba may be on the list of must-visit places for tourists or locals looking for an outing on weekends but, that too has become a cause of worry for residents of the area. The number of vehicles it brings through the day only adds up to the area's parking woes. The problem, say residents, aggravates during lunch hours and whenever there is an event at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel or at the Radio Club.
"One can see double parking on the road at any given time. It is like some kho-kho match between authorities and those who park. If one car goes, another one appears. This often leads to a problem when we need to organise some event at a short notice. It is also a security hazard. Considering Colaba is a tourist place, a separate parking area should be provided," Rocky Lobo, a resident of Mere Weather Road and Boman Kawasaki Boman Behram Marg, said.
According to Colaba residents, double parking on both sides of some of the roads becomes a bigger menace particularly during 12-3 pm and in the evenings. On days when there is an event at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel or at the Radio Club, traffic slows down. When DNA visited, two traffic cops were patrolling the area on a two-wheeler and asked people causing double parking to leave. More cars came in once the cops left.
"The problem is not on the main road but on the ancillary roads. It becomes difficult to access one's building because of the cars. The taxis can't come in or go out either," said Meher Sanjana, a senior citizen and member of Clean Heritage Colaba Residents Association.
"The road is wide but, due to frequent double parking, we realise there can be a security hazard. Irrespective of the width of a road, double parking is an offence. A fine of Rs 200 is too meager for commercial capital," said Subhash Motwani, a resident of the area. Kiran Dighavkar, assistant municipal commissioner of A ward, and Ajay Kshirsagar, senior traffic inspector of the area did not respond to calls and messages from DNA.
Dipali Masirkar, deputy commissioner of police (traffic) said, "We are taking actions regularly. But fine also needs to increase."
- "Not only a fire hazard, but a medical emergency can also occur since senior citizens live in the area. What if, during an emergency, a person has to get cars removed first. There are some drivers who double park and just go away," said Pervez Cooper, a resident of the area.
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