Bang opposite the famous Infant Jesus shrine at Vivek Nagar runs an unauthorised parking lot which can house over 50 two-wheelers. Business at this spot hinges on two key days for the church—Thursday and Sunday.
Shoppers who visit the many petty shops which make their appearance on the days also find this spot very convenient to park their vehicles. There is no token issued for the collection.

This is a clever business idea a family entered into years ago as they were unable to iron out their differences on what was to be done with this jointly-owned plot of land. This 30 x 40 land is jointly owned by one Rama `akka’ and her brother Krishnan. The revenue generated there now is shared equally by both the parties.
Co-owner Krishnan told Metrolife that the parking lot was created to benefit churchgoers. However, the church already has two proper parking spots, a vast underground parking lot and another plot on the road located just 50 feet away. “This land was given to the church by the military to facilitate smooth parking for us, “ informs a church volunteer at this parking spot.

When queried about the rates collected, Rama said, “We collect Rs two as the minimum charge for upto two hours. If it exceeds that, we collect more.” Though done illegally, there appears to be no extortion involved.
Software engineer Sujit, who has been parking his vehicle here to attend church on Sundays for over three years, said, “I have always paid Rs two as the parking fee.” Jagjit employed in a printing press said,”Whatever money we hand over, they are content to take that, it could be Rs two or even just one rupee.”

A shopkeeper nearby had a different view and alleged that those running the place collect charges as per their whims. “Some have even paid three rupees or five rupees,” he charged.

Krishnan said he planned to build a commercial complex in the place soon. When probed for details on the parking rates, he alleged that he had to pay money to the cops as well as the person employed. However, an old man employed here said he was not paid any salary. “I am given meals in the afternoon and take some change as allowance for tea. I have to hand over the entire collection money to the woman who owns the place,” he said.

Elaborating on the revenue gathered, he said,”We get around Rs 500 on Thursdays, Rs 200 on Sundays and anything between Rs 60 and Rs 100 on other days.”

When church officials were asked about the parking done across, they said they did not know anything about it.

Corporation reaction
When BBMP was asked if they had permitted parking work there, Joint Commissioner (East) Y Nagaraj said, “Engineers have been asked to look into the issue and submit a report. The revenue inspector will be asked to initiate action if the parking is going on illegally, he added.”