Bengaluru Metro’s draft policy proposes travel card integration with parking charges, penalty for non-Metro users

Byappanahalli Metro Station parking lot. Photo by X/@NammaBengaluroo.

Bengaluru Metro’s draft policy proposes linking travel cards with station parking charges and imposing penalties on those who do not use the Metro but use the parking space.

“The Metro parking space is sometimes used by non-Metro commuters but may own a commercial or retail outlet near the station. In such cases, non-Metro users park their vehicles in the station parking lot, leaving commuters with no option but to park on the road due to the lack of available parking space,” it said.

This would prioritise parking for genuine commuters and promote public transport use, according to the policy.

“If non-Metro users are prohibited from parking, it would discourage the use of private vehicles due to the difficulty in finding parking space. This would, in turn, incentivise the use of the Metro for accessing the area. Therefore, it is crucial to establish regulations to ensure that Metro parking spaces are reserved exclusively for park and ride by Metro commuters,”it said.

Also read: How poor last-mile connectivity has hit public transport use in Bengaluru

The draft policy stated that mechanisms can be created to separate park-and-ride users from general parking by integrating Metro travel cards with parking charges.  "Normal charges apply if the card is used for Metro travel, while penalties will be imposed if not".

“This infrastructure will ensure efficient parking management, direct data relay to BMRCL (Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited), and prevent revenue leakage. Additionally, on-street parking may be prohibited within 150 metres of a station,” it said.

BMRCL has invited public feedback on the draft policy till October 18, 2024. The policy aims to identify stations suitable for park-and-ride facilities, streamline parking for Metro users, and ensure the safety and security of commuters and their vehicles.

It also seeks to reserve parking for specific user groups, implement parking charges with enforcement and monitoring mechanisms, and manage parking spaces effectively through smart technology.

Tie-ups with startups

The draft parking policy has proposed collaborations with startups and private firms to tackle parking issues at stations. By integrating technology, partnering with private entities, and improving connectivity, BMRCL aims to streamline parking management and enhance Metro ridership.

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“Startups/operators may be encouraged to offer competitive and creative technology solutions that would help BMRCL to optimise the use of parking spaces,” the policy states. It also recommended Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as a strategy to develop and manage parking spaces, bringing in investment, expertise, and innovation.

For Metro stations with limited land for parking, the draft policy proposes agreements with nearby private entities like shopping malls, offices, and hotels to share their parking facilities with Metro commuters. "This would maximise the use of available space and improve commuter convenience," it said.

The policy recommends smart technology for efficient parking management. One proposed solution is integrating parking availability at Metro stations into the Namma Metro app, allowing users to check available slots and plan their trips. Another suggestion is installing LED displays that show real-time parking availability at each station and nearby stations using a color-coded interface, guiding commuters to vacant spots.

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Poor last-mile connectivity

Bengaluru Metro, which has an operational network of 73.8 km, serves a daily ridership of 7.5 lakh. Currently, BMRCL has a total parking area of 114,000 sqm at 53 Metro stations (61 locations), providing parking facilities for cycles, two-wheelers, and four-wheelers.

Despite the Metro being a viable public transport alternative, the policy stated that private vehicle users are reluctant to switch due to poor first and last-mile connectivity. The draft policy emphasises the need for effective feeder services, safe pedestrian infrastructure, and park-and-ride facilities to improve accessibility.

"Residential roads pose significant operational challenges for standard 12-metre BMTC (Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation) buses, hindering effective public transport access. In the absence of a regulated last-mile connectivity solution, commuters struggle to reach Metro stations," it said.

The policy proposes to identify Metro stations with a high potential for park-and-ride facilities, particularly those with limited direct connectivity. Multi-level parking at major transit hubs like railway stations and bus stands are also suggested to enhance inter-connectivity between different transport modes. The draft policy points out that haphazard on-street parking near Metro stations causes traffic congestion and worsens road capacity. It calls for an organised parking regime around stations to manage the situation efficiently.

Also, read: Startups to unveil solutions leveraging Bengaluru's real-time transit data