Bengaluru
The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) is facing hurdles in its plan to introduce a smart parking system at KR Market due to hundreds of junked vehicles blocking the parking area. A company has been contracted to carry out the project, but abandoned vehicles are slowing progress.
Authorities have shared details of these vehicles with the police and are carrying out inspections. Vehicles are being moved one by one to clear space for the smart parking work. The clearance process has already taken about 22 days.
Kalyan, general manager of Prince Royal Parking Solution, the company awarded the tender, said around 180–190 two-wheelers, 20 auto-rickshaws, and 8–10 four-wheelers have been abandoned in the parking area. He added that some vehicles have been there for years and the area has also been misused for open defecation. The basement stored water for about a decade, requiring repairs to pipelines before work could proceed.
The smart parking system will include digital entry and exit points and accommodate up to 400 two-wheelers and 200 cars. CCTV cameras will also be installed to enhance security. The design will follow the model used at Freedom Park, integrating advanced technology for efficient parking management.
The project aims to modernize KR Market’s parking facilities and improve visitor experience. However, officials say removing the junked vehicles is a priority before construction can begin. The GBA is coordinating with police and municipal authorities to ensure swift clearance, hoping the smart parking system will be operational soon to benefit the busy market area.
