The Andhra Pradesh government has issued new guidelines to regulate parking fees in commercial establishments, including malls and multiplexes, aiming to balance consumer convenience and prevent misuse of parking spaces by outsiders. The policy, outlined in G.O. MS No. 44 issued by the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Department on Tuesday, will come into effect on April 1.
Under the revised structure, parking will be free for all visitors for the first 30 minutes. Between 30 minutes and one hour, it will be free with proof of purchase from the establishment; otherwise, a prescribed fee will apply. Beyond an hour, there will be no charge only if the visitor presents a bill or movie ticket showing a purchase exceeding the parking fee; else, a standard fee will be charged.
The move follows representations from consumer rights organisations, including one led by Vikas Pandey, and recommendations from municipal authorities. The government aims to prevent unjustified parking charges while ensuring that commercial parking spaces are not misused by non-customers.
Principal Secretary S. Suresh Kumar has directed all commercial establishments to strictly implement the new rules, with the Commissioner & Director of Municipal Administration, A.P., responsible for enforcement.
The new policy is expected to bring relief to shoppers and movie-goers while ensuring organised parking management across the State.
Published – March 26, 2025 12:08 am IST