Abhijith N Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Apr 6: Lack of parking facilities in Mangaluru has become a major woe of the residents of the city. Many people end up parking their vehicles in no parking zones leading to traffic congestion.
Hence, Mangaluru Police Commissionerate started a drive in March where vehicles parked in ‘no parking areas’ were towed. In just one month Rs 7,04,900 lac was collected as penalty in 910 parking violation cases.
The details obtained from the Police Commissionerate, reveal for heavy vehicles Rs 1,600 (Rs 750 for contractor) was collected as penalty. For light vehicles (car) Rs 1,100 (Rs 500 for contractor) and two wheelers Rs 750 (325 for contractor) was charged as fines.
The drive began on March 2 and vehicles parked in no parking areas, footpaths which created inconvenience to the pedestrians were towed. Three staffs are appointed in a towing vehicle. If they get any information about illegal parking then they will tow the vehicle.
There are two towing vehicles belonged to Mangaluru traffic east and west. Meanwhile, public have expressed dissatisfaction that no traffic police are present when the vehicles were towed.
Speaking to daijiworld.com Sandeep Patil said, "The towing vehicle is introduced to bring discipline among motorists. There were several complaints from the public about the haphazard parking which also created traffic congestion. If the vehicle is being parked in no parking region then vehicle will be towed and fined. We have to ensure there is smooth flow in traffic.
"As of now there are two towing vehicles functioning. We will purchase two more towing vehicles for another two traffic police stations,” said Sandeep Patil.
When asked about details on vehicle damages during towing, Sandeep Patil said, "We take all precautionary measures so vehicles will not get damaged while they are being towed."
When asked about shops acquiring parking spaces, Sandeep Patil said, "Such things are not allowed. We will coordinate with City Corporation and conduct a special drive and take action against this.”