Lahore's expensive rotary machines fall into disrepair, authorities grapple with parking issues

In a striking case of wasteful expenditure and improper management, Lahore's modern rotary machines, which cost taxpayers several crores, now lie in a state of disrepair. These machines, intended to alleviate the city's parking woes, have become symbolic of government inefficiency, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

Several years ago, the Lahore Parking Company ambitiously undertook the installation of five rotary machines across prominent areas in the city, incurring a total expenditure of about 8 crores. The initiative seemed promising, aimed at modernizing the parking infrastructure and ensuring seamless vehicular movement. However, the reality that unfolded was starkly different.

A notable example of this administrative lapse is the rotary parking machine situated in the DC office. This particular machine, which had a price tag exceeding one and a half crore, has been non-functional since its very inception. In fact, it was inaugurated during the tenure of the former DC, Saleha Saeed, but has never once been operational post the ceremonial launch.

Alarmingly, the electrical wirings, surveillance cameras, and sensors associated with the rotary parking systems have also been found damaged, rendering the equipment useless. And it's not just the DC office; other key installations, like those in Achhra, Services Hospital, and Mayo Hospital, have also been inactive for an extended period.

Despite the substantial investment in these rotary machines, the chronic parking problem outside the DC office persists. A solution that should have been a relief has turned into yet another problem, with the machine remaining inactive.

Caretaker Minister, Ibrahim Murad, had previously acknowledged the malfunctioning of these rotary machines and had even issued directives to ensure their activation and sought a comprehensive report on the matter. However, these orders have yet to be executed, leaving the public to question the administration's commitment to resolve the pressing issue.

Lahore, a bustling city with a rising vehicular population, needs robust solutions for its parking problems. The present state of these rotary machines underscores the need for proper planning, regular maintenance, and timely interventions.

Reporter Basam Sultan