The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has announced that parking will be free at all locations. Mayor Murtaza Wahab mentioned that KMC will discontinue parking fees in designated areas. An official notice will be issued shortly.
Mayor Wahab stated that due to KMC’s financial stability, as evidenced by its having over Rs 2 billion in its accounts and the expected funds, the city no longer requires Rs 40 to 50 million generated from parking fees. He also warned of legal action against unauthorized collections under KMC’s name.
Parking fees will be abolished on 46 of the 106 main roads managed by KMC, although fees will continue to apply in 25 towns and 6 cantonment board areas.
The move comes as part of a broader traffic management initiative in Karachi, which includes a ban on double parking on the city’s busiest roads to alleviate growing congestion. This decision was reached during a meeting led by Commissioner Karachi Hassan Naqvi, who stressed the need for enhanced traffic control and adherence to parking fee regulations.
DIG Traffic Karachi, Ahmed Nawaz, highlighted that of the 201 charged parking zones in Karachi, about 130 are on major thoroughfares. Unauthorized and double parking exacerbates traffic congestion, especially in the South District. Authorities have agreed to ensure parking contractors abide by regulations, with penalties including permit revocation for non-compliance.
The meeting also resolved to shut down intercity bus ticket counters within Karachi to ease traffic flow, directing the Transport Secretary to oversee this change.
These measures aim to improve traffic flow and enhance road safety in Karachi, with authorities optimistic about the positive impact of stringent rule enforcement on the city’s congestion and overall traffic management.
