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.

Free parking will be available at the following 24 sites:

1. Ballard Estate Phase 1 (Grand Hotel to Scindia House)

2. Barrister Nath Pai Marg

3. S.N. Hardikar Marg

4. Ramjibhai Kamani Marg and Kermani Road

5. Narayan Morarji Marg

6. P.J. Marg Junction

7. D.N. Road

8. T.N. Master Lane

9. K. Dubash Marg

10. Sir P.M. Road

11. Esplanade Lane

12. S.C. Market I and II

13. Horniman Circle

14. P.M. Road and Homji Street

15. T.T. Shingadia Marg

16. Nagindas Master Marg

17. Vitthaldas Thackersey Marg

18. BMC Building Marg

19. Hutatma Chowk No. 1

20. M.G. Road (near Fashion Street)

21. A.M.R.T. Marg

22. Bhikha Behram Well Junction

23. Babubhai Chinai Marg

24. 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.

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.