PANJIM: On Monday, Panjim Mayor Surendra Furtado had a soft launch of the much-hyped pay parking project at 18 notified places in the State capital. On Tuesday, the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) admitted that it is yet to work out the modalities on granting relaxation to local residents. In the absence of the minutes of the Council meeting held on April 28, the corporation’s administration is unaware whether the House resolved to provide passes to residents.
“Until yesterday (Monday) there was no discussion on pass system. We have not worked out any modalities. In fact, the minutes of the council meeting have not come and as such I have no idea whether the council agreed to a pass system,” Deputy Commissioner Sudhir Kerkar told Herald.
“I was not present for the council meeting last week and hence have no idea whether the council resolved to introduce the pass system. We will have to wait till the minutes are signed,” he said. The Commissioner remained unavailable for comments.
The soft launch was held after CCP Commissioner Sanjit Rodrigues issued the work order to Margao-based Straight Deal Services. The corporation expects an annual income of Rs 63 lakh from the fee system.
The CCP standing committee, headed by Furtado, had approved a pass system for local residents, wherein each household would be provided one pass for a car and a two-wheeler. It had been announced that Panjim residents living in old buildings will be given passes provided they are regular house tax payers. No concession has been given to shopkeepers or commercial establishments, which has upset them. Furtado, however, will be overseas till May 10.
CCP has identified 18 places for pay parking including 18th June Road, Church Square, Dr R S road, T B Cunha road, Menezes Braganza road, Dr Govind Vaidhya road, Bhosle Square, Swami Vivekanand road, A B road and other small lanes.
As per the rates, two-wheelers will be charged Rs 4 for the first four hours, Rs 8 for four to 12 hours and Rs 15 for parking above 12 hours but less than 24 hours.
For four-wheelers the rate would be Rs 10 up to four hours, Rs 15 for parking between four hours and 12 hours, and Rs 20 for above 12 hours but less than 24 hours.
