Parking charges at authorised sites in Delhi are set to double from November 1, 2026, until February 28, 2027, according to Hindustan Times. The increase is part of the city's winter pollution-control measures, which aim to discourage private vehicle use. Parking run by DMRC, the Delhi Metro operator, is exempt from the change.
Who is affected
Hindustan Times reports that regular drivers are likely to feel the change most. Office-goers who buy monthly passes may see a smaller rise, though attendants at New Friends Colony said the monthly pass price would also go up. Occasional drivers are expected to cut back more.
One weekend driver quoted by the newspaper said paying Rs 80 instead of Rs 40 for two hours was manageable. For longer stays, he said he might leave his car at the nearest DMRC parking and take the Metro, or use a cab. A single parent who drives for childcare and errands said the higher fees would strain her budget, especially at MCD parking near her child's daycare.
Parking attendants' view
A parking attendant at Barakhamba Road, quoted by Hindustan Times, said the daily charge there was Rs 50 in 2022 and later rose to Rs 100. He expects the new rate to bring complaints from drivers, while regular office-goers will likely keep paying.
Options mentioned in the report
- Park and ride: DMRC-owned and managed parking is exempt, so Metro parking can suit part-car, part-Metro trips.
- Share the commute: Colleagues on the same route can split fuel and parking costs.
- Compare total costs: Include parking, fuel, and car upkeep, and compare them with Metro fares and cab costs.
- Combine errands: One longer trip may cost less than several short drives with repeated parking.
- Work from home: The winter framework provides for 50% work from home in government and private offices, according to the report.
Automobile influencer Utkarsh Negi, quoted in the article, said many motorists may simply absorb the higher cost, while cost-conscious drivers could turn to carpooling and public transport.