Free parking a must but malls fleecing visitors

HYDERABAD: “Is there is a procedure for collecting parking fee by the managements of shopping malls, theatres and multiplexes?’’ K Kannababu, MLA, had asked the government in the Assembly two days ago.Minister for municipal administration and urban development M. Maheedhar Reddy replied that there was no provision or procedure for collection of parking fee for vehicles at those places because Rule 11.1 (GOMs 88 of 2006 MAUD) made provision for parking place mandatory at all commercial and business establishments. The minister, however, admitted that opposite was the actual situation as almost all the above-mentioned establishments in Greater Hyderabad were openly violating the norms and fleecing their customers by collecting hefty parking fees from them.Even the GHMC is collecting parking fee at some of the zonal offices and mayor Majid Hussain expressed surprise at collection of parking fee during a surprise visit to the central zone office a few days ago.On any given day, 500 to 700 vehicles are parked at a mall or multiplex.Charging Rs 20 for a four-wheeler and Rs 10 for a two-wheeler for the first two hours, and Rs 10 and Rs 5 respectively for every additional hour, mall owners are minting money everyday.Some malls charge on hourly basis.Despite the parking fee, vehicles are parked at owner’s risk. Mall owners or complex managements are not responsible for theft or damage of accessories or goods kept in the vehicles, loudly proclaim the signposts. Some complexes provide free parking if customers make purchases there. GHMC, the only authorised agency to collect parking fee within its limits, appears unconcerned at the plight of shoppers what with its own parking policy being in a mess.Its officials are fully aware of the looting by malls but are least bothered to take action for obvious reasons.According to the minister, shopping malls, theatres, multiplexes and IT-enabled services in the core areas of the twin cities have to earmark a certain portion of the built-up area for parking of vehicles