Shimla, May 24
A massive tourist influx triggered by the ongoing heatwave in the plains has led to a sharp rise in vehicular traffic towards Shimla, with more than 70,000 vehicles moving between Solan and Shimla during the last three days. The surge included nearly 25,000 vehicles from outside states visiting the hill destination.
Police Chief of Shimla district Garauv Singh stated that heatwave witnessed heavy rush of tourist vehicles during this week end.
”In view of the unprecedented rush during the peak tourist season, the Shimla District Police have intensified traffic management arrangements across the city and adjoining areas to ensure smooth vehicular movement and public convenience. Additional police personnel have been deployed at key locations, while the number of traffic riders has also been increased for rapid response and better traffic regulation.” He said
The police have further strengthened surveillance and monitoring by deploying interceptor vehicles in different parts of the city. These vehicles are assisting in real-time traffic management and quick handling of congestion points. To improve supervision, Shimla city has been divided into five sectors, each being monitored by designated NGO-1 officers to ensure better coordination and prompt decision-making.
Traffic volunteers have also been engaged in assisting the police department, while the process of recruiting additional volunteers is underway. Tourist vehicles heading towards Upper Shimla are being diverted through the Shoghi-Mehli bypass to reduce pressure on the city’s main roads.
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The district police are simultaneously running traffic awareness campaigns through social media platforms, providing regular updates regarding alternative routes, traffic advisories, and parking arrangements for tourists and local residents.
Despite the heavy traffic pressure and simultaneous deployment of police personnel for Panchayat election duties, the Shimla District Police claimed that traffic movement remained largely smooth due to effective planning, constant monitoring, and coordinated deployment.
The police have appealed to tourists and residents to cooperate with authorities, follow traffic rules, and use designated routes to avoid congestion during the ongoing tourist rush.
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