Let’s meet city officials half way this festive season

Representation Pic

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) held its Navratri coordination meeting along with event organisers at the civic headquarters mid-week, and one of the suggestions was that all organisers make parking space for vehicles within the venue. Navratri begins on Sunday.

Officials from the traffic department suggested that parking space for vehicles be provided within the event venue so that the celebrations are more organised.

More than 1,200 Navratri mandals in Mumbai city get official permission every year and Chhat Puja is organised at more than 82 locations, a report said in this paper.

While there are differing opinions on parking, it is evident that it is a hot-button issue, sizzling especially on special days of the festive season that is upon us.

While parking within venues may be difficult, organisers, especially those holding events in mammoth places, may have some facilities. Clubs across the city also hold dandiyas and in some clubs, the guest parking can be used for revellers to park their cars.

It is good if people carpool to events or even take public transport, to ease the burden on our roads. Now, celebrations do not wrap up too late, so cabs may be available and other transport, too, may be running. While it may not be as comfortable as your car, you free up space and also do not have to try to find parking.

Keep road discipline and dial back the rage, observe speed limits. An orderly celebration is not just about good conduct within the venue, but the whole package. Smooth traffic, ease of negotiating our roads is a seminal part of celebrations in a choked city. Organisers and police have their task cut out for them, let us, as citizens intent on enjoying an evening out, try to do as much as we can, too.