Team Herald
MARGAO: The Margao Municipal Council (MMC) is considering a shift to hydraulic or mechanical parking systems as an alternative to its long-delayed multi-level parking structure project. This potential change in direction was discussed at a recent meeting where a Mumbai-based company presented their parking solution to council members and officials. The company outlined how their hydraulic parking system could address the space constraints that have plagued the original project. MMC Chairperson Damodar Shirodkar noted that the mechanical system would require significantly less space than the traditional concrete ramp structure initially planned.
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The proposal includes a five-year maintenance commitment from the company, along with provisions to train municipal staff for subsequent operations. The council would retain control over parking fee determinations if the project moves forward.
The MMC is considering this alternative after multiple failed attempts to secure contractors for the original multi-level parking project, which was first proposed nine years ago. Both the MMC and the Goa State Urban Development Agency (GSUDA) have been unable to attract bidders for the conventional concrete structure, despite repeated tender calls.
According to GSUDA officials, the final decision rests with the Municipal Council.
The original parking project, which had its foundation stone laid at the old fish market site behind the Municipal building nine years ago, has remained dormant due to contractor reluctance and other complications. The site, which was specifically earmarked for this development, continues to await a viable solution. This new mechanical parking proposal, if approved, could potentially break the long-standing impasse in addressing parking needs in the commercial capital.
