PMC plans to replace defunct JM Road multilevel parking facility

Pune Municipal Corporation Eyes New Parking Facility for JM Road Site

PMC plans to replace defunct JM Road – Pune’s municipal authorities are set to dismantle the outdated JM Road parking structure, located near the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Garden, and construct a modern alternative to tackle the city’s worsening parking shortage. The plan, part of broader initiatives to streamline vehicle storage, aims to replace the long-dormant facility with a more advanced structure equipped to handle higher traffic volumes.

Proposal Discussed in Committee Meeting

During a recent standing committee meeting, officials outlined the proposal to revitalize the site. The existing multilevel mechanized parking system has been largely idle for years, unable to fulfill its role despite being situated in a high-traffic commercial zone.

“The current facility on JM Road is underutilized due to persistent operational and technical challenges,” said Standing Committee Chairman Shrinath Bhimale. “With vehicle numbers climbing annually, the PMC is examining options to expand parking capacity across the city. A potential plan involves demolishing the old structure and building a new, technologically enhanced parking system at the same location.”

Redevelopment Plans and Technology Integration

Officials emphasized the need for updated infrastructure, suggesting that the new facility will incorporate improved systems to reduce delays and accommodate larger vehicles like SUVs. The PMC is also exploring similar projects in Mandai and Narayan Peth to ease congestion in central areas.

BOT Model for Implementation

According to municipal sources, the projects will be executed through a BOT model, enabling private entities to handle development and management. This approach is expected to minimize financial strain on the civic body while ensuring efficient execution.

“The PMC is anticipated to present a BOT-based plan soon,” Bhimale added. “Once finalized, the standing committee will deliberate on the next steps. As urbanization accelerates, tech-driven solutions will become critical to resolving Pune’s parking dilemma.”

Legacy of the Existing Facility

Initially launched as a pioneering effort to alleviate parking shortages, the JM Road structure faltered shortly after opening. Users frequently cited technical faults, lengthy wait times, and the inability to access it for larger vehicles as key drawbacks. Despite these issues, demand in the surrounding area—driven by commercial hubs, schools, and tourist spots—has steadily grown, highlighting the need for a more effective solution.