KOTTAYAM: The Gram Panchayat in Erumeli issued notice against unlicensed parking centers following a High Court intervention due to these centers overcharging pilgrims. The Panchayat noticed several centers operating without proper licenses particularly affecting pilgrims visiting the area.

Official rates for parking

- Two-wheelers: Rs 10 per day
- Autorickshaws: Rs 20
- Cars: Rs 30
- Jeeps: Rs 40
- Mini Buses: Rs 75
- Buses: Rs 100

However, numerous grounds were charging significantly higher fees, with some reaching Rs 150 per day, causing dissatisfaction among visitors. The issue was escalated to the Deputy Collector who led an inspection revealing that many parking lots didn't display the official rates.

During the inspection, it was found that 21 large parking grounds, including some managed by the Devaswom Board and Jamaat lacked proper licensing. Furthermore, the Devaswom Board faced fines for exceeding the permissible rates on auctioned land.

Action was taken against contractors who imposed excessive fees, impacting pilgrims including those from abroad. Sub-contracting of lands after being granted contracts was observed leading to exploitation of visitors. Some people converted their adjacent lands into parking spaces seeking financial gain.