Commuters who take the train in Rockland and Orange counties will have to start paying for parking.

On Tuesday, the Metro-North Committee approved charging daily, monthly and yearly parking fees at lots it owns or controls in Rockland and Orange counties. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) voted to implement the fees Wednesday. Metro-North Railroad officials said the increase was to offset the $21 million the agency has spent during the past five years to build or improve parking facilities in the counties. Commuters from Nanuet, Pearl River and Spring Valley will pay $192 for a yearly permit or $16 a month, to park at the lots.

State Assemblyman Ryan Scott Karben (D-Monsey) blasted the MTA's decision. Karben claims the MTA is giving city subway users a free ride while picking the pockets of suburban commuters.

The parking rates will go into effect on January 3. If commuters purchase the $192 12-month permit by January 31, they will receive three months for free.