The process of purchasing and owning a vehicle in Mumbai may soon become more challenging, as the Maharashtra government is contemplating a comprehensive reform of the current vehicular mobility framework in the city. A recent report indicates that the state administration is evaluating significant modifications to vehicle ownership regulations in Mumbai, aiming to address issues related to parking difficulties, traffic congestion, and both air and noise pollution.

According to the report, the transport department has proposed various changes to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. These proposals include the introduction of substantial congestion taxes, limitations on the number of vehicles permitted per household, restrictions on vehicular access in heavily congested areas such as South Mumbai and other commercial districts, among other measures.

How global cities combat vehicular congestion

The report indicates that the proposal mandates vehicle owners to present a certified parking area (CPA) certificate when registering a new vehicle. Officials have examined various models from cities around the world to develop this plan. This includes Japan's requirement for a 'garage certificate' to purchase a new car, as well as Singapore's vehicle quota system established in 1990, which significantly increases the cost of car ownership. In Singapore, the government issues a 'certificate of entitlement' to car owners, valid for a period of ten years. Additionally, China, recognized as the largest automotive market globally, has implemented restrictions in several cities to manage the number of vehicles. London imposes a congestion charge for vehicles entering its central area, while Stockholm in Sweden also enforces similar tolls to limit vehicle traffic.

The proposal is currently in its early stages, and Chief Minister Fadnavis has instructed the transport department to engage with all relevant stakeholders prior to finalizing the new regulations. The report mentions that the department will conduct discussions with various parties and consider the legal implications over the next three months. Other elements related to the regulatory framework will also be addressed in the upcoming weeks.

Need a better public transportation system

Traffic congestion and the unchecked increase in vehicle numbers pose significant challenges for a densely populated city such as Mumbai. It is important to highlight that the city lacks a comprehensive public transportation system, which is a feature found in cities like London, Stockholm, and Singapore. Mumbai is still in the process of expanding its metro network. Additionally, the BEST bus network operates with approximately 3,000 buses, including those on wet lease, which is insufficient to cater to the demands of the city's growing population.

The transport department plans to introduce changes gradually and in designated areas, although the timeline for these changes has not yet been announced. Enhancing public transportation will be essential for the successful implementation of these policies. Furthermore, the new policy is likely to encounter resistance from automobile manufacturers. It remains to be seen how the policy will differentiate between car and two-wheeler owners, should it be put into effect.

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