Unabated illegal parking fees: A reflection of governance failure

The continued illegal collection of vehicle parking fees in Imphal, despite the expiration of official agreements, is a glaring example of administrative inefficiency and lack of governance. It is alarming that even after this newspaper reports exposing this illegality, neither the Imphal Municipal Corporation (IMC) nor law enforcement authorities have taken any visible action to curb the menace. This failure raises serious concerns about accountability and the rule of law in the state.
According to reports, the IMC had allotted 49 public parking slots, of which eight were designated for specific firms and individuals for maintenance and fee collection. The contracts for these slots expired between April 29 and May 2, 2024. However, despite the lapse, unauthorized individuals continue to collect parking fees at Paona Bazar and other locations, with the revenue presumably flowing into the pockets of powerful, politically connected individuals instead of the IMC’s coffers.
Adding to the chaos, improper and double parking in the middle of the roads has significantly worsened vehicular movement. The lack of designated and well-managed parking spaces has led to severe traffic congestion, making daily commuting a nightmare for residents. This problem has become even more glaring during the recent Road Safety Week observed by the government, which aimed to promote better traffic discipline. Ironically, while awareness campaigns were conducted, the ground reality of traffic mismanagement and illegal parking collection remained unchanged, highlighting the authorities’ failure to implement meaningful reforms.
What makes this situation even more distressing is the apparent inaction of the authorities. The IMC has yet to issue fresh notifications inviting new bids for parking management, thereby leaving room for corruption and extortion. If the municipal authorities are unable to regulate parking fee collection, one must question whether they are truly fulfilling their responsibilities. Furthermore, if the IMC lacks the power to act, why has it not lodged an official complaint with the police? Similarly, the traffic police, who are expected to regulate urban mobility, seem either unwilling or powerless to intervene. Are they complicit, or do they simply lack the authority to act against such lawlessness?
Meanwhile, the government’s silence on this entire issue raises further concerns. Despite multiple reports and growing public discontent, no concrete measures have been announced or implemented. The lack of action suggests either a deliberate neglect or an inability to counter powerful interests benefiting from this unlawful system. If the authorities continue to ignore such blatant violations, it will only encourage further lawlessness, making it increasingly difficult to restore order in the city.
The ongoing illegal parking fee collection is not just a matter of unauthorized revenue generation; it is a symptom of a deeper governance crisis. If such blatant violations persist under President’s Rule, what can the people of Imphal expect when a full-fledged government returns? The inability—or unwillingness—of the authorities to curb this illegality sets a dangerous precedent and erodes public trust in institutions meant to safeguard their interests.
This issue calls for immediate intervention. The IMC must act decisively by either taking direct control of parking management or ensuring that only authorized agencies handle it through a transparent bidding process. The police, on their part, should enforce the law without fear or favor. The longer these unlawful activities continue, the more it emboldens those who thrive on corruption and impunity.
Public space should not be held hostage by vested interests. The people of Imphal deserve better governance, and it is high time that the authorities step up and reclaim the city from lawlessness.