Following a sting operation in Mumbai alleging overcharging at 60% of the city’s pay-and-park sites, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided not to renew contracts with 24 private parking contractors in South Mumbai’s A Ward. Until new tenders are processed, parking at these 24 locations will be free of charge. The move aims to rebuild public trust and curb malpractice by former operators.
List of affected locations
Free parking will be available at the following 24 sites:
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Ballard Estate Phase 1 (Grand Hotel to Scindia House)
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Barrister Nath Pai Marg
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S.N. Hardikar Marg
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Ramjibhai Kamani Marg and Kermani Road
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Narayan Morarji Marg
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P.J. Marg Junction
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D.N. Road
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T.N. Master Lane
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K. Dubash Marg
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Sir P.M. Road
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Esplanade Lane
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S.C. Market I and II
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Horniman Circle
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P.M. Road and Homji Street
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T.T. Shingadia Marg
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Nagindas Master Marg
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Vitthaldas Thackersey Marg
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BMC Building Marg
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Hutatma Chowk No. 1
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M.G. Road (near Fashion Street)
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A.M.R.T. Marg
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Bhikha Behram Well Junction
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Babubhai Chinai Marg
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Janmabhoomi Bhavan Marg
Note: Jamnalal Bajaj Lane has already shifted to free parking (contract ended May 24). The Eros Cinema area and eight other sites will follow on May 31.
Civic staff to manage sites for now
This free parking initiative is temporary. BMC is currently reviewing its entire pay-and-park policy. The suspended sites may be handed to a single agency under the Deputy Chief Engineer (traffic) for improved oversight and transparency. Meanwhile, BMC will oversee these locations during the interim period to assist motorists and prevent unauthorised fee collection. A spot quotation process is underway to appoint new contractors.
The move follows a sting that caught a contractor at Kala Ghoda overcharging and violating no-parking norms. The offender has been booked under IPC Section 420. A proposal for blacklisting is pending.
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