No Final Decision Yet on Mall Parking Fees, Says BMC

Bhubaneswar : Amid rising complaints over parking fees being charged at shopping malls, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Chanchal Rana on Thursday clarified that no final decision has been taken on the issue.

The Commissioner admitted that the practice of collecting fees has come to the civic body’s notice but pointed out the absence of a uniform legal framework. “We cannot say whether collecting parking fees is legal or illegal. Different courts, including consumer forums, High Courts, and even the Supreme Court, have issued varying judgments in different states,” he said.

Rana explained that both the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) and the Corporation have their own resolutions on parking management, which will be reviewed before arriving at a decision.

“Parking spaces should not be used for commercial gain. As per existing provisions, parking fees cannot be charged. At the same time, if parking remains completely free, there are chances of misuse. Our focus will be to ensure convenience for people while preventing misuse of space,” he added.

The Commissioner further stated that discussions with mall owners have already been held and consultations with legal authorities will follow to frame a balanced policy on the matter.