Martin Li

    martin.mouse@163.com

    SHENZHEN plans to increase charges at commercial parking facilities, the city’s transport commission revealed yesterday.

    The commission didn’t disclose the amount of the increase, but characterized the extra fees as “administrative charges” that will be collected and used by the government to develop public transportation.

    Parking facilities in residential properties will not be affected by the price hike.

    The commission said they believe the parking fee increase would discourage people from using their cars, which would relieve traffic jams and improve air quality.

    Cars move at an average speed of 22.15 kilometers per hour during rush hour, which the commission said equates to a slight traffic jam.

    Parking for 24 hours in Shenzhen now costs 60 yuan (US$9.5) at maximum, which is significantly less than that in Beijing (134 yuan), Shanghai (240 yuan) and Guangzhou (128 yuan), according to the commission.

    There are about 1 million commercial parking spots in the city, it said.

    (Continued on P3)

    Parking fees will differ based on location. The commission categorized local districts and new areas into three classes, with “Class One” areas like Futian, Luohu and Nanshan districts being the most expensive places to park.

    In addition, parking prices will also differ depending on the time of day and day of the week. During workdays and busy times, prices will be higher.

    The news of the price hike plan has triggered backlash among residents on social media, including weibo.

    “Why is the price hike the only means used by the government to address most problems?” wrote a user named wizard4511.

    “Is the price hike a way to push up GDP in Shenzhen?” wrote another a user named CHKE Cheke.

    The commission reiterated that Shenzhen will not implement restrictions on car purchases, a regulatory path taken by Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.

    There were 2.87 million motor vehicles in Shenzhen by the end of June. The number grew by 15 percent in each of the past five years, according to the commission.