Shimla, Dec 31,
Himachal Pradesh witnessed a surge in tourist activity between December 11th and 29th, with over 96,000 vehicles traversing the Rohtang Atal Tunnel and similarly high traffic volumes on major routes to Shimla and Manali. The Green Tax Barrier in Manali recorded 43,123 vehicle crossings, with nearly 50% being local, while Shimla’s Shoghi Police Barrier noted 74,039 vehicle movements, including 36,542 from other states.
This influx, driven by festive season celebrations and heavy snowfall, strained local resources and posed significant challenges to traffic management. According to Deputy Inspector General of Police (Traffic, Tourist, and Railway), Gurdev Chand Sharma, additional personnel from the Indian Reserve Battalion have been deployed under the direction of DGP Himachal Pradesh, Dr. Atul Verma, to manage the situation. Two dedicated teams from the Traffic, Tourist, and Railway (TTR) unit have been stationed in Kullu-Manali and Shimla to regulate traffic flow and ensure road safety.
Efforts to maintain smooth traffic movement include strict enforcement of traffic rules and real-time updates to drivers about weather conditions and safety precautions. Close coordination with local agencies has facilitated timely snow clearance and the maintenance of essential roadways, Sharma informed.
The Himachal Pradesh Police urged both visitors and residents to adhere to traffic regulations, drive cautiously, and cooperate with law enforcement for a safe winter experience.
The snowfall created hazardous driving conditions, leading to accidents and instances of vehicles getting stuck, particularly at higher altitudes. The sudden surge in vehicle numbers overwhelmed existing infrastructure, causing severe traffic congestion in popular destinations. Local residents experienced disruptions due to prolonged traffic jams, and even electric buses operated by the Himachal Road Transport Corporation faced battery depletion issues amid the delays.
Economic boost and future improvements
Despite the logistical challenges, the heavy snowfall provided an economic boost to the state. Hotels reported full occupancy, and local businesses thrived due to the influx of tourists. However, the situation underscored the need for improved traffic management strategies, including expanding road capacity, enhancing parking facilities, and bolstering snow clearance operations. Promoting responsible tourism and encouraging off-season travel could help mitigate similar challenges in the future.
The authorities remain committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors while working to address the structural issues highlighted by this year’s festive season surge.
