Parking certificates required to register new vehicles in Chennai

The Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) has introduced new parking regulations requiring a parking certificate for registering four-wheelers, including new cars. This initiative aims to control the use of private vehicles by ensuring that every registered car has a designated parking space. Under this rule, individuals must provide proof of parking before registering a new vehicle. Those without a parking space at home will need to rent parking spots in designated centers rather than leaving their cars on the roadside.
To enforce these regulations, CUMTA plans to establish a parking management unit. Many households have space for only one car but own multiple vehicles, leading to parking congestion on streets and traffic disruptions. The new rule ensures that a car can only be registered if there is proof of parking space, preventing such issues.
Parking areas in Chennai will be categorised into three levels, top, mid, and low with corresponding parking fees. Proper implementation of these regulations will require paid parking centers in high-demand areas. For instance, a two-kilometer-long road with heavy parking demand may have additional paid parking centers, while areas with lower demand will have cheaper parking options. In areas with very low traffic, free parking is also being considered. This dynamic pricing model is designed to efficiently manage parking spaces across the city.
Additionally, permission to set up parking centers will be granted only on major roads and will be allocated through monthly or annual auctions. This will allow people to park their vehicles at a lower cost while ensuring better parking infrastructure.
More importantly, structured parking improves vehicle safety by reducing the risk of theft or damage. It also helps save fuel by keeping vehicle interiors at a moderate temperature, thereby reducing the strain on air conditioning and heating systems. Beyond these practical benefits, the policy also enhances the aesthetic appeal of residential and commercial areas by reducing roadside parking clutter.
With the introduction of parking certificates and structured parking management, CUMTA’s new policy is a significant step toward addressing Chennai’s traffic challenges.
This is certainly a welcome announcement!