Mumbai Parking Goes Digital: BMC Introduces FASTag Payments to Stop Fake Attendants

Mumbai, July 16: In a major step toward digitizing urban services and curbing parking-related scams, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced the rollout of FASTag-based payment system for on-street parking across Mumbai. The initiative aims to eliminate the rising menace of fake parking attendants, overcharging, and unaccounted cash transactions.

Under the new system, vehicle owners will scan a QR code at designated BMC parking lots, which will be linked to their vehicle’s FASTag account. Once scanned, the parking fee will be automatically deducted, ensuring a seamless and transparent experience.

"We’ve received numerous complaints from citizens about bogus parking attendants charging arbitrary amounts. This FASTag-based model will ensure transparency, accountability, and security in parking transactions," a senior BMC official told Maharashtra Times.

The new system will first be introduced at select BMC-managed parking locations, with plans to expand citywide to cover more than 100 official parking zones. Alongside this, the BMC will soon launch a dedicated mobile app to help Mumbaikars:

• Locate nearby parking slots

• View real-time availability

• Check official rates

• Receive digital receipts for all transactions

Areas such as Dadar, CST, Bandra, and Andheri have long been plagued by fake parking agents who pose as civic staff and extort money from vehicle owners. By moving to a cashless, digital model, BMC aims to plug revenue leaks, reduce traffic congestion due to illegal or unregulated parking, and enhance public trust in civic services.

This tech-driven reform also aligns with broader efforts to improve urban mobility and promote digital governance in Mumbai.

The BMC is currently training on-ground staff and installing the necessary infrastructure across pilot locations. The move is expected to offer a hassle-free, scam-proof parking experience, reducing conflicts, improving compliance, and making Mumbai’s streets more orderly.