By Vikash Sharma

Cuttack: With the growing number of vehicles putting increasing pressure on its road network, Cuttack is planning to develop four multi-level parking facilities to ease traffic congestion and address the city’s persistent parking problem. The proposed infrastructure is expected to provide organised parking spaces, reduce roadside vehicle parking and improve traffic movement across the city.

Cuttack Mayor Subhas Singh said the locations for the proposed facilities have not yet been finalised. An inspection will be conducted to identify suitable sites, taking into account the availability of land and the parking requirements of different parts of the city. The findings of the inspection will subsequently be submitted to the Housing and Urban Development Department (H&UDD) for consideration.

The initiative comes amid growing concerns over traffic congestion in Cuttack, where limited parking space has emerged as a major challenge for motorists and commuters. The increasing number of two-wheelers and four-wheelers has intensified pressure on the available infrastructure, particularly in busy commercial areas, marketplaces and along major roads.

In the absence of adequate designated parking facilities, motorists often leave their vehicles along roadsides, narrowing the available carriageway and obstructing the smooth movement of traffic. The problem becomes particularly acute during peak hours, when heavy vehicular movement coincides with roadside parking, causing delays and inconvenience to commuters.

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The proposed multi-level facilities are expected to help accommodate more vehicles within limited land areas by making better use of vertical space. If implemented, they could reduce the dependence on roadside parking and help authorities manage traffic more efficiently. However, the effectiveness of the initiative will depend on the selection of accessible locations, proper planning and regular maintenance.

Meanwhile, the condition of the existing parking facility at Link Road–Madhupatna has raised concerns over its upkeep and utilisation. Reports of its reportedly poor condition have highlighted the need to ensure that existing parking infrastructure is maintained properly and remains functional for public use.

Urban planners and traffic management authorities have increasingly emphasised the importance of providing adequate parking facilities as cities expand and vehicle ownership rises. For Cuttack, the proposed projects could form part of a broader effort to improve urban mobility and reduce congestion.

With the locations yet to be identified and the proposal awaiting further consideration, the next steps will determine how soon the plan can move towards implementation. Residents and commuters will be looking for a practical solution that addresses both the shortage of parking spaces and the city's worsening traffic pressure.