BMC's paid parking plan for Bandra's Joggers' Park stirs debate on public space management

The BMC's July 1 decision to introduce paid parking outside Joggers' Park on Carter Road, Bandra, has ignited a heated debate among residents. Supporters argue it will reduce car usage, while opponents believe it restricts access to one of the city's few open spaces.

Asif Zakaria, the area's former Corporator, highlighted a concerning contradiction in the BMC's approach. He pointed out that in 2017, when the BMC took over Jogger's Park, they removed the ₹2 entry fee to encourage public use of open spaces. Now, the introduction of a ₹45 parking fee seems to undermine this very goal of promoting public health through accessible open areas.

Zakaria also highlighted the impact on senior citizens, many of whom travel from Khar and Santacruz for morning laughter and yoga clubs. Additionally, Zakaria plans to launch a signature campaign, if the BMC does not reconsider its decision.

On the contrary, architect Alan Abraham supports the fee, arguing that those who can afford cars, can afford parking too and that valuable road space should be utilised effectively. He believes the fee will not deter genuine park visitors but will discourage misuse of the parking lot by non-visitors and locals, who use it as private parking space.