The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru is gearing up to enforce fines on vehicles parked beyond stipulated time limits at its arrival and departure lines. The proposed fines, yet to have a fixed implementation date, include Rs 150 for 5-10 minutes of parking, Rs 300 for 10-14 minutes, and vehicle impoundment for exceeding 15 minutes. These measures are expected to be enforced initially at Terminals 1 and 2.
Currently, private vehicles enjoy free entry for up to 7 minutes, exempting them from the above charges, while cabs and vehicles dropping passengers at departure gates are also unaffected. However, buses and Tempo Travelers face a fee of Rs 600 and Rs 300, respectively, for their brief stays.
KIA authorities have cited congestion issues caused by unauthorized taxis lingering for extended periods near arrival lines, prompting the need for stringent penalties to manage traffic flow effectively. Discussions with the government are ongoing to finalize implementation details.
Responding to the proposed rules, Eshita Dhamija, a cab passenger, expressed concern over the short grace period of 5 minutes, citing difficulties in managing luggage and boarding. The potential impact on both passengers and taxi drivers remains a focal point of debate.
In a separate development, the East Traffic Division of Bengaluru Police conducted a targeted operation to combat drunk driving, resulting in 28 cases being registered against motorists driving under the influence of alcohol. The operation, conducted across various police stations throughout the night, involved checks on 735 motorists. Vehicles belonging to offenders have been impounded, and recommendations have been made to the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) for cancellation of driver’s licenses.
