In response to escalating pollution levels across Delhi-NCR, the New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) has implemented a doubling of parking fees for cars and two-wheelers until the revocation of Stage-II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the national capital. The decision aims to encourage citizens to opt for public transport, thereby reducing pollution amid the city’s deteriorating air quality.
According to the NDMC notice, “Keeping in view the climatic conditions, the parking fees (off-road/indoor) have been enhanced to twice the existing fees for the parking managed by NDMC till the revocation of stage II of the GRAP.”
Impact on Parking Charges
The increased parking fees apply to all NDMC-managed parking lots. For surface parking, the charges for four-wheelers have risen to ₹40 per hour (with a maximum of ₹200 for a full day), while two-wheelers will now be charged ₹20 per hour. However, multilevel parking rates remain unchanged, with four-wheelers being charged ₹20 for four hours and two-wheelers ₹10 for the same period.
The enhanced fees will not apply to on-street parking sites or monthly pass holders. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), which manages most of the city’s area, has yet to implement similar hikes, as the proposal is still awaiting clearance.
GRAP and Pollution Control
Stage-II of the GRAP has been enforced due to the severe drop in air quality, with Delhi experiencing a ‘very poor’ AQI. This stage includes restrictions like a ban on the use of coal and firewood, tandoors in eateries, and diesel generator sets (except for emergency services).
This move is part of the larger effort to control pollution during the winter season, when the city’s air quality typically worsens due to factors such as vehicular emissions, construction dust, and stubble burning in neighboring states.
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