Parking issues outside CMCH in Coimbatore unresolved as new parking facility remains underutilised

Vehicles parked outside Coimbatore Medical College Hospital.
| Photo Credit: M. PERIASAMY

Unauthorised parking of vehicles and large crowds in front of Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH) continue to cause traffic congestion, despite the inauguration of a new parking facility by the Coimbatore Corporation opposite the hospital.

To address this long-standing issue, the Corporation constructed a parking lot behind the Lanka Corner bus stop at a cost of ₹56 lakh. The facility, which can accommodate 280 two-wheelers and 15 cars, was opened to the public a month ago. However, it remains largely underutilised, failing to ease roadside parking in the area.

A traffic police official noted that many people are unaware of the facility. “Most cite lack of awareness as the reason for parking on the road. We have placed no-parking boards and guide motorists orally, but we have also requested the Corporation to install a visible signboard to indicate the presence of the parking facility,” the official said.

Underutilised parking facility opposite Coimbatore Medical College Hospital, with only a handful of vehicles parked daily despite its capacity.
| Photo Credit:
M. PERIASAMY

R. Rajesh, a visitor to CMCH who had parked his vehicle on the roadside, said, “Parking should be free. Earlier, we could park inside the hospital. For those visiting a government hospital, free parking would be ideal.”

The Corporation charges ₹10 for two-wheelers and ₹30 for four-wheelers, but the facility remains underutilised, with an average of only 20 vehicles using it daily.

A senior Corporation official said discussions are underway with the hospital to explore the possibility of offering free parking for hospital visitors through a token system or outpatient card validation. “We will also install a prominently visible information board to ensure people are aware of the facility,” the official added.