Jammu, April 26: BJP Spokesperson and Convenor, International Affairs, Gaurav Gupta today called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and submitted a memorandum highlighting the growing parking crisis in Jammu city while proposing the utilisation of under-flyover spaces for the creation of structured parking facilities.
During the meeting, Gupta drew the attention of the Lieutenant Governor towards the increasing traffic congestion in Jammu caused by unplanned roadside parking and the shortage of organised parking infrastructure in major markets and commercial hubs.
He informed the Lieutenant Governor that Jammu city already has important flyover infrastructure at key locations including the Kunjwani Flyover, Akhnoor Road Flyover and the Jewel Flyover in the heart of the city, where large spaces beneath the structures remain unused and can be scientifically developed into organised parking zones.
Gupta said that haphazardly parked vehicles on roadsides have become a major cause of traffic jams, delays and inconvenience for the general public. He said the absence of designated parking spaces has led to chaotic conditions across the city, particularly during peak hours, and has also created difficulties for pedestrians and emergency movement.
He suggested that the administration may consider adopting successful models implemented in cities such as Delhi and Kolkata, where under-flyover spaces have been effectively utilised for parking and other public utility purposes to reduce congestion and improve urban traffic management.
In his memorandum, Gupta proposed a detailed survey of available spaces beneath major flyovers in Jammu, development of properly demarcated parking bays, installation of lighting and CCTV surveillance, introduction of smart parking systems and exploring Public-Private Partnership models for efficient implementation and maintenance.
He further stressed that such an initiative would not only decongest prominent city routes but would also prevent encroachments, improve civic aesthetics and contribute towards a smarter and more organised Jammu city.
Gupta expressed confidence that under the leadership of Manoj Sinha, Jammu & Kashmir would continue to witness progressive urban reforms aimed at improving public convenience and strengthening city infrastructure.
The Lieutenant Governor gave a patient hearing to the concerns raised and assured that the matter would be examined appropriately in the larger interest of the people of Jammu.