Mohammedia's free parking policy undermined by unofficial attendants

Mohammedia, Morocco, has officially declared its public parking free, yet the reality on the ground tells a different story. Numerous parking attendants, often referred to as 'guardians,' continue to solicit money from drivers in various parts of the city, undermining the municipal decision.

Despite the prominent "Free Parking" signs posted throughout the city, streets and public squares frequented by residents and visitors still feature these unofficial attendants. Their presence is particularly noticeable in high-traffic areas such as Prince Moulay Hassan Park, known locally as 'the Park,' the vicinity of the fish market, streets near the city's beaches, the regional hospital, and around government buildings, especially on Fridays.

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The authorities have done their duty and announced free parking, and the signs... suggest that all parking lots... have become free. However, the reality on the ground shows the continuation of the phenomenon of guarding cars, where some individuals still roam the streets and demand money from car owners for guarding.

Some attendants employ subtle tactics, such as offering to clean cars with a wipe, to justify their demands, especially from visitors unfamiliar with the free parking policy. Others are more direct, insisting on payment. This situation has led to frustration among locals and raised questions about the effectiveness of the city's free parking initiative.

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This extortion is unacceptable. A visitor who comes to Mohammedia, then finds themselves asked to pay money despite free parking, and is insulted upon refusal, will not easily consider returning to the city.

Local observer Mohamed Sahaim Sahaimi described the practice as "extortion." He noted that while the authorities have made the declaration and posted signs, the reality is that people are still being asked for money. He added that when drivers refuse to pay, they may face verbal abuse, which deters visitors from returning to the city. Sahaimi stressed the importance of addressing this issue to improve Mohammedia's image as a tourist destination.

The persistence of these unofficial attendants also raises questions about their livelihoods. Sahaimi acknowledged that these individuals relied on parking fees for income and suggested that authorities should also consider finding alternative solutions for them, alongside enforcing the free parking policy.

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What is the fate of these people? When we talk about the attendants, the responsibility of the authorities also lies in finding solutions for these individuals, since they rely on income solely from parking.