Taxi drivers complained that their designated parking stands near Marine Drive in South Mumbai are being occupied by private vehicles. Two of the spots are at either end of G Road near Marine Lines railway station. While two others are on by D Road, outside the Churchgate railway station entrance on IMC Marg.
Though a traffic police officer who patrols the area stated that they act against all violators, and don’t differentiate between private vehicles and taxis, some cab drivers think otherwise. The cops state that they do stop motorists if they see them trying to park at a taxi stand, but it is difficult to always keep an eye on them, as the number of lanes outnumber the cops.
Some disgruntled cabbies say that the private car owners get away scot free. Those cabbies who are forced to park in no-parking zones have to pay fines of Rs 1500 to Rs 2000, which is a day’s earnings.
While it is understandable that there are simply too many parking lanes and vehicles, too, with the police unable to keep an eye on all, it is important that private cars are deterred from parking in these designated spaces.
Signage at taxi stands stating that violators will be penalised will help to some degree.
Sharp CCTV surveillance at these spots will help identify habitual offenders.
Even if police cannot survey areas for 24 hours, stricter patrolling during hours when people usually switch off the ignition and need to park vehicles, at night, especially may help. Parking is a big flashpoint in Mumbai; dedicated spaces for certain vehicles must be used correctly.