Mumbai BMC Brings FASTag-Based Parking System To End Fake Attendant Scam

Mumbai residents will soon experience a big change in street parking as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has announced introducing a comprehensive FASTag-based payment system. This digital transformation addresses longstanding issues with fraudulent parking attendants and unauthorised fee collection across the city, The Free Press Journal reported.

FASTag Replaces Manual Cash Transactions

The system requires motorists to scan QR codes connected to their vehicle's FASTag account when parking in designated BMC areas. 

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Parking charges will be automatically processed through the digital platform, removing human intermediaries from the payment process entirely.

This shift directly targets widespread problems with illegitimate parking agents who have been exploiting citizens through excessive charges and corrupt practices while impersonating official municipal staff.

"We've received numerous complaints from citizens about bogus parking attendants charging arbitrary fees. By switching to FASTag-based payment, we are bringing transparency, safety, and convenience to the parking experience," a senior BMC official was quoted as saying by Maharashtra Times.

Phased Implementation Across Mumbai

The digital parking framework will initially launch in select BMC-controlled parking facilities before expanding throughout the city's network of more than 100 official parking zones. This gradual rollout ensures proper testing and refinement of the system before full-scale implementation.

Dedicated Mobile App

Complementing the FASTag integration, municipal authorities plan to launch a dedicated mobile app. This platform will enable users to identify available parking spaces, review current pricing structures, and receive digital transaction receipts for all parking activities.

Addressing Parking Violations And Extortion

Mumbai has long struggled with parking-related fraud and violations, particularly in busy commercial areas including Dadar, Andheri, CST, and Bandra. Unauthorised individuals frequently pose as legitimate civic employees, creating confusion and opportunities for exploitation.

Municipal officials anticipate this digital transformation will significantly reduce revenue losses, improve regulatory compliance, and decrease traffic congestion resulting from disorganised parking behaviours.

Urban Parking Challenges

The transition to FASTag-based payments represents Mumbai's commitment to leveraging technology for improved civic services. Citizens can expect enhanced security, cashless convenience, and protection from fraudulent schemes through this accountable digital infrastructure.