By Burnett Munthali and Twinkspurge Jones Gadama
When you hear of a car park, you always have a picture of a structure where cars can park nicely and in an orderly manner. We have seen many car parks in different places where we have been to and we have always appreciated the designs that were made. However, we still believe that much better car parks can still be designed and made.
However, someone must help us understand what we keep seeing in Lilongwe the capital of Malawi. Lilongwe City Council is seen charging parking fees in different places even where they have not built anything. Is this fair to the people?
We just feel they are doing business in front of other businesses and this appears like a raw deal. Is this what we can call e-parking even when some people park their cars in front of their shops?
Malawians deserve better services than what is happening in the capital. Can’t Lilongwe City Council think of constructing nice car parks where car owners can park their cars at a reasonable fee? Otherwise, the concept of e-parking is not different from street begging or mini bus call boys who get paid for doing nothing. We can do better than this ad a nation and avoid the embarrassment. I know to some extent, some young people have got employment opportunities as they capture number plates using electronic gadgets.
What is e-parking?
E-parking, also known as electronic parking or smart parking, is a concept that utilizes technology to streamline and improve the management of parking spaces. It involves the use of digital systems, including sensors, cameras, and mobile applications, to monitor and control parking areas more efficiently.
One of the key features of e-parking is the implementation of real-time parking availability information. This allows drivers to access up-to-date data about the number of vacant parking spots in different locations. By utilizing mobile apps or online platforms, drivers can easily find and reserve parking spaces, reducing the time spent searching for a spot.
Additionally, e-parking systems often incorporate electronic payment methods. Instead of relying on traditional cash-based payments or physical parking meters, users can conveniently pay for their parking sessions through digital means. This adds convenience for both drivers and parking operators by eliminating the need for handling physical currency or dealing with coins.
Another aspect of e-parking includes advanced parking management systems. These systems enable authorities or parking operators to monitor parking spaces remotely, detect parking violations, and enforce regulations more effectively. By integrating various technologies, such as license plate recognition and automated ticketing, e-parking helps ensure compliance and optimize the utilization of parking resources.
Furthermore, e-parking can contribute to traffic flow optimization and reduce congestion. By providing real-time parking availability information, drivers can make informed decisions about where to park, minimizing unnecessary circling and traffic jams caused by the search for parking spaces. This can lead to improved traffic management and a more efficient use of road infrastructure.
In summary, e-parking represents a modern approach to parking management that leverages technology to enhance convenience, efficiency, and revenue generation. Through real-time information, electronic payments, advanced monitoring systems, and traffic optimization, e-parking aims to improve the overall parking experience for both drivers and authorities.
Feedback: bonnetmunthali2101@gmail.com
Jonesgadama@gmail.com
