Approximately a month ago, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab announced that parking fees at 46 KMC-controlled sites would be abolished to facilitate citizens, citing the KMC's improved financial stability. Despite the official announcement, widespread reports have indicated that illegal parking fees continue to be extorted from the public across numerous locations. Specifically, citizens have reported still being charged for parking at sites including, but not limited to, Rashid Minhas Road near Aladdin Park, KDA Market Gulshan-e-Iqbal, the commercial area in Bahadurabad, outside Atrium Mall and Mobile Market in Saddar.
The individuals collecting fees in these areas claim to be KMC officials without any official identification and authorisation slips. Moreover, upon payment refusal, vehicles are being towed by local authorities and police stations. The parking mafia continues to operate blatantly in the city, regardless of the official notice. The authorities should take immediate and strict action by arresting the individuals who are collecting illegal charges from motorists.
Rabiya Batavia
Karachi