Shimla, Jun 13
The relaxation of condition of RT-PCR test and lifting of Section 144 has resulted in a sudden influx of tourists in the state capital Shimla. Even though the restrictions are to be lifted with effect from Monday morning, tourist vehicles were noticed making beelines through the state borders, especially from Parwanoo on Sunday.
Superintendent of Police Shimla Mohit Chawla said on the Shimla police media whats-app group that during last 36 hrs approximately 5000 vehicles have entered Shimla city through Shoghi barrier.
He said that influx of tourist is increasing in the hill queen and Shimla police has urged the tourists
to follow appropriate Covid behavior namely wearing face mask following social distancing failing which strict action would be taken under the law.
Even a video showing Parwanoo barrier indicates double lines of tourists and local vehicles in large numbers coming towards the state. There are reports that a sizable number of tourists are waiting to enter to Himachal as the restriction of
RT-PCR test report and section 144 would no longer be required to enter in the state.
On Sunday number of local people who are living in Chandigarh and other places have also made bee line to state as they wanted to avoid heavy congestion of traffic expected from tomorrow onward. State Government has also opened public transport with 50 per cent capacity Jun 14 onwards, is likely to increase the crowd in the state.
In the summer tourist season there has been very thin presence of tourists in the town. Since last two year hospitility industry has suffered a major shock as the tourists footfall came down drastically in the state which had incrased to about 1.79 Cr ;per Annum.
