Asker Station Parking Crisis: Commuters Risk Fines as Spaces Dwindle
A growing number of train commuters are resorting to illegal parking at Asker Station in Norway, risking hefty fines due to a severe shortage of available spaces. The situation highlights a critical imbalance between the number of monthly parking permits sold by Bane Nor, the Norwegian railway administrator, and the actual capacity of the commuter car park.
The problems are particularly acute in the mornings. According to reports, by 7:30 AM, the car park is consistently full, forcing commuters to seek out any available spot, often in violation of parking regulations. “I park here often. Those who are not here by 7:30 at the latest will not be given a place,” explained a student from Oslo, who admitted to parking illegally and bracing for a potential fine.
Many commuters express frustration with Bane Nor’s policy of selling more monthly passes than there are designated parking spaces. Paying NOK 250 (approximately $23 USD) per month for a parking spot that isn’t guaranteed is “completely unreasonable,” the student stated. Others echoed this sentiment, describing a daily scramble for a space. “Now I have parked in a row that is not marked. Therefore, it is illegal,” said one commuter, acknowledging the risk of a fine that could reach several hundred kroner.
The desperation is palpable. “Many are bold when they park here. People get desperate,” observed another commuter. Concerns have also been raised about the effectiveness of Bane Nor’s snow removal efforts, with some suggesting improved clearing could free up additional spaces.
The issue extends beyond simply finding a spot. Kjersti Læknes, a commuter from Heggedal, described the situation as “completely hopeless” after 7:30 AM, particularly during the winter months when spaces are obscured by snow and ice. Læknes, who pays NOK 250 monthly for a parking permit, often finds herself forced to use a private car park at a significantly higher daily rate of NOK 200 or more. She emphasized the convenience of parking at Asker Station, noting that the train from Heggedal is less direct, making a longer commute.
The challenges aren’t limited to those driving from further afield. Heidi Bjørhovde, a doctor commuting from Blakstad to the new Drammen hospital, highlighted the logistical difficulties of balancing work and family responsibilities. “I have two children who are to be delivered to kindergarten and after-school care. I can’t leave home until a little after 7:30,” she explained, emphasizing the need for reliable parking to facilitate her daily commute.
Bane Nor acknowledges the issue, stating in an email that they sell a right to park, but not reserved spaces, to keep costs down. A spokesperson explained that reserved spaces would be significantly more expensive. They also maintain that snow removal is conducted to maximize parking availability, though this claim is disputed by some commuters. Currently, there are 473 unreserved outdoor parking “pockets,” and 80 reserved spaces on the fourth floor of the Onepark Asker car park, which are fully occupied.
The parking agreement is valid nationwide, meaning Bane Nor lacks detailed data on occupancy rates at specific locations. This lack of granular data further complicates efforts to address the problem.
Commuters are left to navigate a frustrating system, often choosing between the risk of a fine and the inconvenience of alternative transportation or significantly more expensive parking options. The situation at Asker Station underscores the growing need for increased parking capacity and a more equitable solution for train commuters.
