As the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) introduces new parking regulations to address the city's growing parking issues, the current state of illegal parking is causing severe disruptions. With several mega projects nearing completion, the number of vehicles in the city is set to rise, making parking an even greater challenge.
Following a directive from the High Court, the civic body has implemented stricter parking provisions for residential and commercial developments. However, despite Navi Mumbai’s status as a well-planned urban center, rampant unauthorized parking—especially in "No Parking" zones—has led to increased congestion. Both the municipal corporation and traffic police have faced criticism for failing to curb the problem effectively.
Although NMMC has developed parking facilities, they remain insufficient compared to the city’s rising vehicle population. Unauthorized garages and vehicle-related businesses further exacerbate the issue. While traffic police take action regularly, the rapid increase in vehicles continues to make parking management a significant challenge.
Previously, the court instructed the NMMC to reassess the city's parking norms. In response, a committee led by Jitendra Bhople, then Deputy Director of Town Planning for the Konkan Division, was formed to evaluate and recommend updates. These recommendations have resulted in revised parking regulations, which are now awaiting state government approval.
Key Changes in Parking Norms
- Homes larger than 1,500 square feet must provide parking for two four-wheelers and one two-wheeler, with an additional parking spot for every extra 500 square feet.
- Homes between 800 and 1,500 square feet must include parking for two four-wheelers and one two-wheeler, and 5% visitor parking.
- Homes between 600 and 800 square feet require three four-wheelers per two homes and two two-wheelers.
- Homes between 400 and 600 square feet must allocate parking for 2.5 four-wheelers per two homes and two two-wheelers.
- Even homes smaller than 300 square feet must accommodate one four-wheeler and two two-wheelers. Additionally, builders must allocate 5% of total parking for visitors across all housing categories, ensuring a standardized approach.
These new regulations aim to streamline parking in Navi Mumbai and alleviate congestion, but their success will depend on effective implementation and enforcement.