Transport Minister Aishath Nahula has stated that citizens are fined for parking violations as a result of parking in manners that cause inconvenience to citizens.
Speaking at the Parliament on Wednesday, Minister Nahula was asked by Kaashidhoo MP Abdulla Jabir why the government continues to fine citizens for parking violations without addressing the parking issues in the Maldives and providing an adequate solution.
In response, Minister Nahula said some citizens continue to park in front of entrances although other parking spots are available. This in turn inconvenience the citizens, and in such cases, parking tickets will be issued.
"Even if a parking spot is available, some people continue to park in such a way that it blocks entrances. We issue parking tickets as their actions inconvenience and disturb other citizens. We are working to find a permanent solution to this matter". said the minister.
Minister Nahula clarified that parking tickets will be issued if vehicle are parked in front of mosques entrances, zebra crossings, school, hospital and bank entrances. Additionally, vehicles parked on the asphalted area of the ring road, and areas blocked off by traffic cones and barricades, and double lined areas will be fined.
The Minister said the government will make 400-1000 parking spaces available for motorcycles by the end of the year, and 100 additional spots to park cars.
New parking zones have been established in front of Majeedhiya School, near Finance Mnistry, Velana Building, MMA, Maafannu cemetery and Maafannu Food Court, the minister said.
Minister added that although countless parking zones are established in Male'' city, the parking issues will not be resolved if the number of vehicles being registered remains uncontrolled. A paper on how to address congestion in Male' has been presented to the cabinet, said the Minister.
Transport Minister Aishath Nahula at the Parliament on Wednesday - Photo: Majlis
