Even as the implementation of the on-street paid parking system is progressing slowly, city corporations are exploring off-street parking following suggestions from the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA).

While a few multi-level parking facilities have been developed in the central part of the city, around 66 locations have been identified where Multilevel Car Parking (MLCP) can likely be implemented. Taking a step forward, the Bengaluru North City Corporation (BNCC) has identified vacant spaces, and work has already begun at one of the locations.

Space away from roads

Interestingly, the BNCC is going beyond MLCP and is implementing the system beneath a flyover where the space is wide but remains unmaintained. The proposed location is beneath the flyover opposite the upcoming Kogilu Cross Metro Station in Yelahanka.

A source in the BNCC explained that the main reasons for the failure of paid on-street parking are location and cost factors. “In many corporations, there are no major commercial areas with constant footfall, which is ideal for paid parking. In such cases, we need to identify places like upcoming metro stations, food streets, or shopping complexes so that vacant spaces can be monetised effectively,” he explained.

“In the central corporation, there are several commercial establishments, and the floating population is massive,” he added. According to him, every inch in that corporation has strong revenue potential, making it attractive even for bidders. However, in other corporations, the challenge is to strike a balance between generating good revenue and ensuring profitability for the concessionaire.

Thus, the BNCC resorted to strategically identifying spaces and targeted Kogilu Circle, where a metro station is coming up. Similarly, the BNCC is planning locations near bus stops, markets, and other areas with high footfall throughout the day. Other corporations are also identifying locations for off-street parking.

Notably, all corporations are expecting a significant chunk of revenue from the paid parking system. However, except for the central corporation, where a dozen roads have been monetised through the parking system, other corporations are struggling to secure bidders.

Kogilu Cross parking

According to the BNCC source, although the location at Kogilu was identified strategically, the space belonged to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), for which the corporation sought permission.

According to a letter reviewed by The Hindu, the BNCC observed that a considerable extent of space beneath the flyover near Kogilu Circle is presently lying vacant and unattended, with no proper maintenance being carried out.

“The location is strategically important, and a parking lot at this site will greatly benefit the general public by addressing parking issues in the vicinity. Further, development of the said parking facility will also help improve the upkeep of the area, prevent encroachments, and generate revenue for the department through regulated usage,” the letter noted.

The source said the NHAI granted permission, but the space was filled with mud and other debris. Currently, the BNCC is carrying out development work at the site for its conversion.

Essentially, the corporations are now looking at monetising vacant spaces to bolster revenue sources while also keeping parking away from streets, thereby allowing smoother movement of vehicles.