Thiruvananthapuram: A sharp rise in the number of vehicles is worsening the parking shortage in the state capital, with motorists forced to park along the roadside and footpaths. Thiruvananthapuram corporation has estimated that the city requires an additional two to three acres to meet the growing demand for parking space.The district’s vehicle population has increased by 3.67 lakh in four years, from 18.03 lakh in 2020-21 to 21.70 lakh in 2024-25, a 20.3% growth. In 2025 alone, 1,06,872 vehicles were registered in the district, adding to the pressure on the city’s limited parking infrastructure.According to corporation officials, the city currently has 27 designated pay-and-park facilities. However, most of them frequently reach capacity, especially during peak hours, leaving motorists with few alternatives.The multi-level parking facility at the corporation office can accommodate around 250 vehicles and is primarily used by people visiting the civic body for various services. The facility near Saphalyam Complex can accommodate around 150 vehicles, while the one at Thampanoor has space for around 400 vehicles.Parking capacity was expanded at Putharikandam too, where a multi-level parking facility to accommodate around 200 cars was recently opened at a cost of nearly Rs 16 crore.A corporation official said the available facilities were insufficient to meet demand. “The existing parking facilities are often full. When people come to the corporation office, they use the multi-level parking facility. Similarly, the parking grounds at Saphalyam and Thampanoor also fill up soon,” the official said.Parking shortage is particularly visible on several roads redeveloped under the Smart Road project. Twelve roads covering 21.34km were upgraded at a cost of around Rs 180 crore, with improvements to carriageways, footpaths and underground utility infrastructure. However, roadside parking continues along stretches such as Killipalam-Attakulangara, Thycaud-Mettukada and General Hospital Junction-Vanchiyoor.On the Killipalam-Attakulangara stretch, large goods vehicles are reportedly parked for long periods. Vehicles of customers at commercial establishments spill onto the carriageway as businesses lack adequate parking space.Parking on footpaths has compounded the problem, forcing people to walk on roads. This affects both pedestrian safety and traffic movement.ACP (traffic) R Suresh said illegal parking contributed significantly to congestion, affecting pedestrians and moving vehicles. “We had earlier informed the authorities concerned about the need to install and repair safety grills along busy stretches, but no action has been taken,” he said.
