Dakor: Devotees visiting the pilgrim town of Dakor are expressing outrage over open loot in the name of parking. A government parking facility built at a cost of ₹35 crore is now gathering dust as its contract has not been renewed. This vacuum has allowed private parking operators to take over, charging unregulated fees, while municipal authorities remain silent spectators.

Despite repeated complaints about the exploitation of vehicle owners by private operators, the administration has taken no action. The official parking lot—capable of accommodating over 200 vehicles—is lying in a state of disrepair due to the administration’s failure to issue fresh tenders.

Although the state government promotes the development of pilgrimage sites, the closure of the Dakor government parking facility sends the opposite message.

Devotees are questioning why they should suffer due to the government’s failure to renew the parking contract. No timeline has been shared for the renewal, leaving the public helpless. Many feel they are being unfairly penalized for administrative delays.

Built 10 years ago at a cost of ₹35–40 crore, the government parking lot has now fallen into ruins. It lacks basic maintenance and fire safety measures and is in no condition to accommodate vehicles. Bushes and wild plants have overtaken the premises.

When contacted, Dakor Municipality’s Chief Officer Sanjay Patel stated that the government parking facility is not under the municipality’s control but under the jurisdiction of the state government. He assured that a representation would be made to the state authorities. He also confirmed that the private parking operators do not hold valid licenses and promised legal action against those engaging in illegal practices.

Several long-time visitors to Dakor admitted they were unaware of the government parking facility, as no signage has been placed. “We park in private lots and end up paying ₹50 per vehicle. There is no action from the municipality or the government despite this daylight robbery,” one devotee said. With over 20 private parking facilities in Dakor—many running unchecked—there is growing unrest among devotees. Protests in the near future cannot be ruled out if the situation continues. DeshGujarat