Pune Metro Announces 'Pay and Park' Services At Eight Stations

The Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (Maha-metro) has unveiled plans to introduce "pay and park" services at eight of its stations in Pune. This initiative aims to provide commuters with convenient parking options while using the metro services.

According to the announcement, two-wheeler commuters will be required to pay Rs 15 for every two hours of parking, with an additional Rs 5 fee for helmet storage at these designated parking spaces. The parking facilities will be available at PCMC Station, Sant Tukaramnagar, Phugewadi, Bopodi, Shivajinagar, Civil Court on Pune Metro Line-1; and Ideal Colony and Mangalwarpeth/RTO on Pune Metro Line-2.

Maha-Metro has appointed an agency to oversee the operation of these parking facilities, which are expected to open soon. While initially, parking was free of charge, the decision to implement parking fees was made to streamline operations and ensure the efficient management of parking spaces.

Atul Gadgil, director (works) at Maha-Metro, stated, "We have requested Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal corporations to provide land for parking or start the facility at their parking reserve land near stations." This demonstrates a collaborative effort to address the parking needs of metro commuters.

All parking areas have been equipped with essential amenities such as boom barriers, concrete flooring, lighting, and CCTV cameras to ensure safety and security. Additionally, features like app-enabled parking booking and parking occupancy display boards have been incorporated for added convenience. The parking charges will be inclusive of GST.

Furthermore, commuters holding a valid metro ticket issued on the same day will receive a 25 per cent discount on parking charges. Monthly subscription passes will also be available for regular metro travellers, providing them with cost-effective parking solutions.

While the introduction of parking fees has received mixed reactions from commuters, with some expressing concerns about affordability, others see it as a necessary step to manage parking resources effectively. Bapu Veer, a commuter from the Phugewadi area, expressed discontent, stating that the Pune Metro's parking rate is higher compared to other municipal corporation charges. However, Balasaheb Chorghade, a commuter residing in Kothrud, emphasised the importance of keeping parking charges economical to encourage higher ridership on the metro.

With the implementation of 'pay and park' services, Pune Metro aims to enhance the overall commuting experience for its passengers while promoting sustainable transportation options in the city.