Dayo Ayeyemi | Lagos
If agreement formally signed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and a team of concessionaires is anything to go by, motorists and drivers parking on the streets will begin to pay for parking in designated areas in the Federal Capital Territory.
The signing of the deal between the duo signals the reintroduction of park and pay policy in Abuja.
This policy, which requires drivers to pay for parking their vehicles in designated areas in Abuja metropolis, is expected to be test-run by September.
The park and pay policy was suspended in 2014 by a pronouncement of FCT High Court after a case was instituted by some residents challenging the legitimacy of the policy, stating that it was not backed by law.
The Permanent Secretary, FCTA, Olusade Adesola, who signed the agreement on behalf of FCTA, said the development was part of measures to reduce traffic congestion and restore sanity in the nation’s capital.
NAJEC Limited signed on behalf of the concessionaires in Abuja.
Chairman of NAJEC Nigeria Limited, Nebolisa Igboka, said the newly reintroduced policy will take off in a way that will dignify and respect the rights of motorists and commuters, but solicited the support and cooperation of the FCT motorists.
He assured FCT Administration and residents, particularly motorists that the policy will be implemented with human face and good intentions as was the case in the past, as against the fears of motorists that its re- introduction will inflict more hardship on motorists.
Going by the records, he said that when the policy was being implemented years ago, sanity was restored on FCT roads, in addition to reduced cases of car theft.
“As we navigate through the evolving urban landscape, it’s crucial to strike a balance between modernisation and convenience while ensuring the well-being of our community.
Listing the benefits of on-street parking, he said: “First and foremost, it eases the burden on existing public infrastructure, notably, pedestrian walkways and green verges. It reduces congestion and promotes a smoother flow of traffic.
“By providing more parking options, we encourage people to utilize public spaces efficiently, leading to better utilisation of urban areas.”
Besides, he said it would promote local businesses, granting, “easy access to parking spaces near commercial districts increases foot traffic, thus encouraging people to visit shops and restaurants, bolstering the local economy. This, in turn, contributes to the growth and prosperity of our community.”
He suggested that recommending on-street parking should come with responsible planning and management.
“By implementing time limits and zoning regulations, we can prevent abuse and ensure that parking spaces remain available for all residents and visitors.”
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