Mohali:
The Mohali Municipal Corporation is preparing to take stricter action against private buses and other commercial vehicles that are parked without permission in market areas and other public spaces, amid growing concerns over traffic congestion and the shrinking availability of road space.
A proposal to regulate the parking of private buses is scheduled to be discussed in the Municipal Corporation’s General House meeting. Under the proposed policy, a private bus found parked without permission in a market or public place could face a fine of ₹10,000 and may be impounded. The corporation may also recommend police action against the operator in cases of violations.
At the same time, the proposal seeks to create a regulated system for bus parking. Private bus operators would have the option of using designated parking spaces by paying ₹1,000 per bus per day.
The move comes amid complaints that large private buses are frequently being parked along roadsides and in market parking areas for extended periods. Because of their size, such vehicles can occupy considerable road space and make it difficult for other vehicles to pass, particularly on already busy roads.
The issue has been reported in several parts of Mohali. Areas around Phase 2 and Phase 3A, particularly near Khalsa College and Kama Hotel, have emerged as points of concern where private buses are often parked along roadsides.
Residents have also raised concerns about the use of roadside space near Singh Gurdwara, where buses and other vehicles can contribute to congestion and obstruct the normal movement of traffic.
Another area under focus is Sector 62, close to the GMADA office. The area was previously associated with Mohali’s old bus stand, but a new bus stand was subsequently developed at another location. Despite the change, private and government buses continue to pass through the Sector 62 area, with some reportedly being parked there.
The municipal corporation’s proposed policy is therefore aimed not simply at removing buses from roads but at creating a more organised parking arrangement for commercial vehicles.
Officials have indicated that the objective is to ensure that market roads and public spaces remain available for general movement. The proposed penalties are intended to discourage operators from treating public roads and market parking areas as permanent parking locations.
The issue is particularly important for Mohali because the city has experienced a steady increase in traffic over the years. Commercial development, residential expansion and increasing vehicle ownership have placed additional pressure on the city’s existing road network.
Large buses parked on narrow or busy roads can create additional problems because they have larger blind spots and require more space to manoeuvre. Keeping such vehicles in designated locations could therefore improve traffic flow and reduce the possibility of conflicts between buses, cars, two-wheelers and pedestrians.
The proposal will, however, require approval from the Municipal Corporation House before it can be implemented. The final rules, enforcement mechanism and designated parking locations will depend on the decisions taken by the House.
The corporation is also considering action against other commercial vehicles parked without permission in public places. This indicates that the proposed policy is part of a broader effort to bring greater discipline to parking and improve the use of public spaces.
For residents and commuters, the effectiveness of the policy will ultimately depend on consistent enforcement. Simply imposing penalties may not solve the problem if suitable parking arrangements are not available for operators. The proposed paid parking option is therefore an important part of the plan.
A regulated parking system could also provide greater clarity for bus operators, allowing them to use designated spaces rather than relying on roadsides or market parking areas.
The issue also highlights the continuing challenge of managing commercial transport in a rapidly expanding city. As Mohali grows as a residential, commercial and employment centre, managing buses, taxis, delivery vehicles and other commercial traffic will become increasingly important for maintaining smooth movement on city roads.
If approved, the proposed policy could mark a more structured approach towards private bus parking in Mohali. The focus will be on keeping public roads clear while providing operators with designated alternatives.
The Municipal Corporation’s decision is now expected to be closely watched by residents, commuters and private bus operators alike. The outcome of the House meeting will determine whether the proposed penalties and designated parking arrangements move forward.
