Shimla police handles record tourist traffic wth five-point strategy
Old photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, June 21
Shimla Police has claimed significant success in managing unprecedented traffic pressure during the ongoing summer tourist season, with over 1.6 million vehicles entering the district during May and June this year.
According to a statement issued by the district police, around 8.5 lakh vehicles were recorded in May and another 7.5 lakh vehicles in June so far, making it one of the highest traffic volumes witnessed at any tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh.
Despite the heavy influx of tourists and limited road infrastructure, police authorities said traffic movement in the city remained largely smooth due to a comprehensive five-point traffic management strategy.
To cope with the increased rush, the strength of police and Home Guard personnel deployed for traffic regulation was enhanced from 136 to 220. Around 50 civil and student volunteers were also engaged to assist traffic personnel.
The number of traffic bike riders was increased from seven to 32, enabling quick response to congestion and breakdowns at sensitive locations.
The city was divided into five traffic sectors, each supervised by a gazetted officer, while senior police officers remained in the field to monitor traffic arrangements.
Three cranes were stationed at strategic points to immediately remove broken-down vehicles and clear road blockages, preventing prolonged traffic jams.
Police said vehicles bound for Kufri, Mashobra, Narkanda, Hatu and other Upper Shimla destinations were being diverted through the Shoghi-Mehli bypass, with nearly 800 vehicles using the alternate route daily.
Similarly, traffic moving towards Chandigarh and Delhi from Upper Shimla was being routed through the Dhalli bifurcation.
Special emphasis was also laid on parking management and dissemination of traffic advisories through social media platforms. Public transport vehicles, including Traveller, Urbania and Scania buses, were allowed on key routes to reduce dependence on private vehicles.
Shimla Police thanked residents and tourists for their cooperation and appealed to visitors to follow traffic rules, use designated parking areas and opt for alternate routes whenever possible.
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