Hike in parking fees will not encourage the use of public transport, say residents

Residents in Dubai are disappointed at the government's decision to hike parking fees. Even though many of them think that it will encourage the use of public transportation, the hike will add to the list of 'skyrocketing' expenses they have to bear every month.

Egyptian national Sherif Al Wakeel said he was not happy about the parking tariff hike. "We are already suffering skyrocketing prices, and do even have a problem with insufficient parking spaces."

Al Wakeel added the hike will not encourage the use of public transport. "The same was said about Salik ... but traffic congestion is still there."

Indian national Abik Devan said public transport in Dubai isn't ready to handle an increased amount of users, which will come because of this hike. "I would've agreed with it if there was infrastructure supporting it. But right now it makes things harder for residents. Two metro lines and a couple of main bus routes, does not make the public transport system ample, they need more bus corridors and cycle-friendly paths," suggested Devan. Jordanian Adnan Ukasha said this way a daily trip from Sharjah to Dubai would cost him Dh8 more. "I pay some Dh24 for Salik going and coming back, plus Dh8 for a 3-hour on-street parking, but will have to shed Dh16 instead for the same three-hour parking."

ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com