Resident and known entrepreneur Ajit Patil’s persistence in uncovering the truth about parking charges at Belagavi Railway Station has revealed critical information that every traveller should be aware of. Patil’s Right to Information (RTI) request seeking transparency on the parking fees charged at the station was initially denied, forcing him to file an appeal. After a prolonged process, the appeal was granted, exposing some startling details.
The RTI, originally rejected for undisclosed reasons, finally disclosed the official parking fees—information that had long been hidden from the public. What came to light was not only shocking but also raised concerns about potential malpractice at the station.
Traveller Beware: Know the Real Parking Fees
The correct parking charges, which all travellers should take note of to avoid being overcharged:
Four-Wheeler Parking: ₹10 (including GST) for every two hours or part thereof.
Two-Wheeler Parking: ₹5 (including GST) for every six hours.
These rates, prescribed by the Railway administration, are final, and any overcharging by contractors is subject to penalties.
Same Contractor, Two Tenders
In a surprising twist, both the two-wheeler and four-wheeler parking contracts were awarded to the same entity: Shree Renuka Devi Enterprises-Belgaum. The monopoly has raised eyebrows among travelers and citizens alike, as complaints of overcharging and poor service have been circulating.
Key Responsibilities of the Contractor
The tender also outlines important duties for the contractor, which travelers should keep in mind:
1. Vehicle Safety: The contractor is responsible for the safe custody of all parked vehicles. If any loss, damage, or theft occurs, the contractor must compensate the vehicle owner.
2. Insurance Requirement: The contractor must insure all vehicles against theft, fire, and other accidents. They must make good any losses from such events.
3. Clear Communication: Parking charges must be visibly displayed on signs within the parking lot to avoid confusion.
4. Cleanliness & Maintenance: The parking area must be kept clean and well-maintained for public use.
5. Receipts & GST Compliance: The contractor is legally required to issue a computerized, GST-compliant invoice for each transaction. Failure to do so could lead to a fine of ₹1,000 per day.
Penalties for Misconduct
The railway tender imposes strict penalties on contractors for violations, including:
– Overcharging: If the contractor is caught charging more than the prescribed rates, they will face significant penalties.
– Land Encroachment: If the contractor uses any area beyond the designated parking space without approval, the Railway administration may terminate the contract and impose fines.
– Lack of Insurance: Failure to insure vehicles could lead to severe consequences for the contractor, including termination of the contract.
Protecting Your Rights as a Traveler
Ajit Patil’s case serves as a reminder for the public to stay informed and vigilant. When parking at Belagavi Railway Station, always check for visible signage displaying the correct rates, ensure you receive a computerized invoice, and report any overcharging to the authorities.
This transparency is crucial for ensuring that contractors like Shree Renuka Devi Enterprises adhere to their responsibilities and provide fair service to the public. Patil’s determination in pursuing the RTI has paved the way for greater accountability, ensuring that travelers are not taken advantage of by unscrupulous contractors.