Speaker Gupta backtracked on poll promises, say Panchkula shopkeepers

Tribune News Service

Panchkula, February 19

Members of the Panchkula Vikas Manch continued their protest on Wednesday as well against the introduction of paid parking by the Municipal Corporation in Sector 8, 9 and 10.

Members of the manch alleged that the MC handed over the charge of these markets to the Red Cross Society and the District Child Welfare Council only to benefit them as the whole process transpired without floating a tender.

“Civic body’s move will put an additional burden on shopkeepers as they have to shell out Rs 30 to Rs 40 daily for parking their vehicles,” said a member.

Shopkeepers said Haryana Speaker and MLA Gian Chand Gupta has stepped back from his poll promise of not introducing paid parking in the city.

Even a residents’ body had recently met Additional Deputy Commissioner Manita Malik in this regard.

One-time parking charges have been fixed at Rs 5 for a two-wheeler and Rs 10 for a four-wheeler. The Red Cross Society and the District Child Welfare Council will be responsible for providing facilities, including demarcation and maintenance.

This would increase monthly income of Rs 8 lakh to Rs 10 lakh for the civic body.