Mumbai traffic cops rubbish security threat argument

While home minister RR Patil has called for a ban on parking under city flyovers as it poses a security threat, the Mumbai traffic police do not agree.

“If the government has decided to ban parking under flyovers because it would pose as a security threat, it is a rubbish claim,” said a crime branch officer.

“Terrorists can place explosives anywhere. In fact, vehicles kept in parking slots below flyovers and bridges are safe from robbers and the government can generate revenue by charging for parking there,” the officer suggested.

Joint commissioner of police (traffic) Vivek Phansalkar refused to comment on the issue.

“If the state government decides to implement the ban on parking under flyovers, it will affect traffic movement and inconvenience both the traffic policemen and motorists. Any ways there is a huge shortage of parking space in Mumbai,’’ said a traffic police inspector, on condition of anonymity.

Last year, Rajbhoj Torne filed a public interest litigation in the Bombay high court challenging the ban.

In his petition, Torne suggested that the government should use the space under flyovers as pay-and-parks. “If the government wants to implement the ban on parking under flyovers, it should first provide alternative parking space to motorists,” Torne said.
The petition is being heard in the high court.