By Kavita Mistry 
To combat growing congestion and parking issues in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), the Maharashtra government is developing a policy that will require car buyers to show proof of a designated parking space before registering a new vehicle.
Mandatory Parking Proof for New Vehicles
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik confirmed that vehicle registration will only be approved once buyers submit evidence of a parking space to the local civic authority. The initiative is part of a broader push to optimize urban space and avoid indiscriminate car ownership in space-scarce metros like Mumbai.
Boosting Infrastructure Through Development Rules
The minister emphasized that developers must adhere to norms requiring the provision of parking with new housing units. The Urban Development Department is also considering permissions for constructing underground parking beneath designated recreational spaces, addressing the acute lack of surface parking across MMR.
Inspired by Global Urban Standards
This policy aligns with international best practices, where parking availability is a prerequisite for owning a private vehicle. With Mumbai having one of India’s highest vehicle densities per kilometer, such regulation is increasingly seen as a necessity rather than an option.
Other Indian Cities Eye Similar Measures
The move follows Chennai’s example, where a similar policy has already been enforced. Bengaluru and Delhi have also debated parking-linked registration rules in the past to deal with rising urban vehicle populations and limited parking infrastructure.
Pod Taxi for Better Last-Mile Connectivity
In addition to parking reforms, the Maharashtra government is exploring innovative urban transport solutions like the pod taxi system. This system, proposed for Mira-Bhayandar and Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), aims to enhance last-mile connectivity and reduce road traffic dependence.