Bhubaneswar, April 16: The state government has proposed strict measures in its draft Urban Parking Policy, making it mandatory for buyers to provide proof of a parking facility while purchasing a vehicle. A parking certificate will also be required during vehicle registration, failing which permission to buy a private vehicle may be denied.
Issued by the Housing and Urban Development Department, the draft policy invites public suggestions and objections until the 28th. The move comes amid a sharp rise in vehicle numbers—from 9.1 million in 2017–18 to 15 million in 2023–24—leading to worsening parking shortages and traffic congestion in urban areas.
The policy proposes paid parking for both on-street and off-street spaces, with stricter enforcement against random roadside parking, especially in residential areas. Roads narrower than 12 meters will have a complete ban on roadside parking. Violators will face fines.
Special parking rules will apply near hospitals, schools, and markets, with higher charges for longer durations and during peak hours. Off-street parking is proposed to be 25% cheaper than on-street parking to encourage its use.
The draft also bars parking on footpaths and calls for dedicated mobile apps for slot booking and online fee payment. Urban local bodies will set up Parking Authorities to oversee implementation, including fee collection, penalties, and vehicle towing. Restrictions on heavy vehicles entering cities during peak hours have also been proposed.
