The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated a citywide inspection drive of all its public parking facilities after citizens complained about misuse at the Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir parking lot on JM Road. Visitors alleged that the parking area, meant for theatre-goers, is being occupied by vehicles from nearby hotels and restaurants, forcing genuine users to struggle for space. Civic officials have issued show-cause notices to the contractors managing the lot, warning of strict action if violations are confirmed. The PMC currently operates 25 parking facilities across the city, including those at Navi Peth, Pune railway station, FC Road, and Satara Road, but citizens argue that poor management and maintenance have rendered many of them inefficient.
Residents have also criticized the lack of basic amenities such as toilets, lifts, and proper lighting, with some parking spaces turning into dumping yards for abandoned vehicles. Complaints about overcrowding and misuse have risen sharply since the lockdown, during which PMC waived contractor fees, leading to a revenue loss of ₹1.25 crore. The long-delayed mechanised parking project on JM Road remains incomplete, drawing further public frustration. In response, PMC has announced a comprehensive review of all parking contracts and infrastructure a move many believe is crucial to restoring public confidence in the city’s parking management system.