Video:15-meter tall, space for 72 cars: Hyderabad gets rotary-style parking facility at KBR Park

Hyderabad: Early morning visitors to KBR Park on Sunday had a first look at the newly constructed multi-level car parking facility at Entry Gate 1. The 15-metre tall structure, currently in its trial phase, aims to reduce congestion and offer an organised solution for car parking along the busy park road.

Free Trial for Morning Visitors

Those who came for a morning walk or jog were among the first to try out the rotary-style parking system. Volunteers who parked their cars on Sunday were not charged, as GHMC has yet to announce the final pricing.

“This was a pleasant surprise,” said Vijay Kumar, a regular jogger at KBR Park. “It’s better than double parking or leaving the car halfway on the road.”

Capacity and Operational Timings

Covering 405 square metres, the structure can accommodate up to 72 cars. Each rotary stack holds 12 cars. Bikes can be parked on the ground level next to the facility. The operating hours are from 5:00 am to 11:00 am and again from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

An on-site operator explained the procedure: “A person needs to drive the vehicle to the base of the rotary stack, apply the handbrake, and then step out. Safety rods will be in place, but the handbrake must be applied.”

Features and Future Plans

The facility includes electric charging points, and a mobile app is in development for booking slots and online payment. There are also plans to add a coffee kiosk and mini-marts nearby to cater to park visitors and morning commuters.

Public Reaction

Those who used the parking welcomed the initiative. Many said they were happy to pay a parking fee rather than risk a traffic fine.

Madhu R., a resident of Jubilee Hills, said, “Paying ₹30 or ₹40 is far better than returning to find a ₹500 challan on your windshield. Plus, it’s more secure.”

Cyclist Concerns Addressed

The new facility could also be a relief for Hyderabad’s cycling community. For months, cyclists have complained about vehicles being parked in areas demarcated for them, especially along the KBR Park stretch.

“There is a dedicated cycling lane on this road, but every morning, it’s blocked with cars,” said Varun Das, a member of a local cycling group. “If this parking system is enforced properly, it’ll finally give cyclists the space they need.”

Existing Parking Habits

Despite the presence of GHMC-controlled commercial establishments along the park’s boundary, many patrons tend to park directly on the road or in front of shops, further adding to congestion.

What’s Next

GHMC officials said the trial run will continue for a few more days, after which a formal rate card will be issued. The corporation hopes to integrate the facility with a wider smart parking system being developed for Hyderabad. For now, the test run has drawn cautious optimism from both park-goers and city traffic managers.