Hiked parking rates to see protest soon

JAIPUR: Market associations of Walled City area are gearing up to protest after Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) floated a proposal to increase the parking rates at Ramniwas Bagh, which was constructed to decongest the Walled City area.
Associations claim that the increase in cost would discourage shopkeepers from parking their vehicles inside JDA’s complex at Ramniwas Bagh. This would lead to vehicles crowding the Walled City and increase in congestion.

A delegation of market associations submitted a memorandum to Jaipur Development Commissioner Vaibhav Galeriya on Tuesday. The association threatened to protest if JDA increased the parking cost.

Harish Kedia, vice president, Gopal Ji Rasta market association said, “JDA is charging Rs 1,300 monthly from shopkeepers, which is already too high. JDA should not take it as a profit earning establishment rather it should be a public service and minimum charges should be taken from shopkeepers,”

The associations further demanded that two-wheelers should also be exempted from parking fee. They also demanded that JDA should resume free bus service to ferry people who park their cars in parking complex.

“In 2013, when the project was launched JDA provided free bus facility for residents. However, it was discontinued after a while. The free mini-bus facility should start again as it will encourage buyers from across the city to come to the Walled City for shopping. The civic body’s focus is on earning money and not improving facilities,” said Neeraj Luhariya, president, Gheewalon Ka Rasta