Chongqing - On March 26, the 15th meeting of the Standing Committee of the Chongqing Municipal People's Congress reviewed and passed key regulations on rail transit and parking. These new rules aim to improve urban mobility and enhance residents' daily lives.
Focusing on issues such as parking time limits and the illegal occupation of roadways, the Chongqing Parking Management Regulations provide a framework that will take effect on July 1.
Lijia smart parking complex. (Photo/Liangjiang New Area)
Public security agencies and urban management departments are currently responsible for enforcing laws related to Chongqing's roads and sidewalks. After the new regulations are implemented, public security organs will handle cases of illegal parking on the roads. The regulations also clarify that public security is responsible for managing road traffic safety and handling traffic accidents.
One key question raised by the public is how parking fees should be charged for on-street parking spaces. Some have suggested that free parking time should be clearly defined and that there should be no fee for entering parking lots, with additional support provided for new energy vehicles in terms of pricing.
The regulations have taken these concerns into account. They specify that the department responsible for development and reform should consider the new energy vehicle support policy when establishing differentiated parking fee standards.
Additionally, the regulations stipulate that vehicles should be given at least 15 minutes of free parking time in areas with government-set or government-guided pricing and no less than 30 minutes of free parking time in residential areas.
Another significant regulation, the Chongqing Rail Transit Regulations, focuses on rail planning, comprehensive development, operational safety management, safety protection zones, legal responsibilities, and more. The regulation will also come into effect on July 1.
This clarifies that rail network planning should determine the direction of rail lines, major transfer nodes, resource sharing, and land-use control requirements. It emphasizes the importance of coordinating the connections between rail transit and other forms of public transportation, including railways, aviation, roads, and waterways, as well as between different rail lines.
Moreover, the regulation highlights the need for rail transit to integrate with regional features and cultural tourism to help shape the city's distinctive identity. It stipulates that entrances, exits, and ancillary facilities for rail transit should be designed in coordination with urban roads, surrounding buildings, bus stops, and other infrastructure to promote better integration of urban space.