MARGAO: The South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA) approved a new pay-parking proposal for its grounds located in front of its office and opposite the vegetable market.
At its recent Board meeting, the SGPDA moved ahead with a plan by directing its officials to establish a clear fee structure before implementing the system.
The move sparked a debate about the adequacy of existing parking spaces, especially with the nearby Osia Commercial Complex housing numerous offices and businesses.
SGPDA chairman Krishna ‘Daji’ Salkar, said that he had taken over the SGPDA leadership two years ago, while the Osia Commercial Complex was constructed around two decades earlier.
Salkar will consult with officials to determine if the complex has reserved parking as per construction rules and examine building permissions for compliance with parking provisions.
The complex, which includes four government offices, the INOX theatre, a multiplex, and various shopping malls spread across five multi-storeyed buildings of the SGPDA mega retail market complex, attracts many visitors and employees daily, raising concerns about whether existing parking facilities can meet the demand.
The situation is further complicated by the daily stream of customers visiting the retail fish, vegetable, fruit, and meat markets within the PDA complex.
A key concern that has emerged is whether the Osia complex has provided sufficient parking space for its tenants and visitors. Moreover, the adequacy of parking provisions for the two multiplexes within the complex is under scrutiny, particularly regarding compliance with legal requirements for theatres.
Locals feel that introducing pay-parking on the spacious land acquired to relocate the Margao pick-up stand should be preceded by a comprehensive parking strategy.
