A year following the significant traffic congestion experienced in Shimla, Manali, and other regions of Himachal Pradesh during the Christmas and New Year celebrations, the authorities have devised a comprehensive strategy to mitigate traffic issues during this year's festivities. The Shimla district administration is set to implement a specialized traffic management system beginning Friday, December 20, which will remain effective until January 20 of the following year.

On Monday, a meeting was convened by officials from the Shimla District Administration to address road safety and discuss measures aimed at ensuring a smooth traffic flow and the safety of commuters. It is anticipated that approximately five hundred thousand vehicles from various states will converge on the popular hill station between December 20 and January 20.

This proactive traffic management initiative in Shimla is a response to the severe traffic disruptions experienced during the previous year's festivities. In December 2023, extensive queues of vehicles were observed on routes leading to renowned tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh, including Shimla, Manali, and the Atal Tunnel. Additionally, earlier this month, heavy snowfall in Shimla and surrounding areas resulted in road accidents due to vehicles skidding on black ice.

Christmas, New Year traffic rush: What Shimla authorities have planned

A series of measures have been devised to facilitate smoother vehicular movement during the forthcoming holiday and festival season. A budget of ₹40 crore has been allocated for the execution of this plan. The Shimla Police will establish crash barriers in areas prone to accidents, such as Chopal, Rampur, and Shimla. Approximately 80 home guards will be deployed to ensure the seamless flow of traffic and to mitigate congestion during peak hours. Additionally, temporary parking facilities for tourists will be created at various locations.

To assist both tourists and commuters, Shimla will introduce 100 new signage boards that will provide information regarding U-turns, traffic regulations, and emergency contact numbers. Furthermore, ten 4x4 vehicles equipped with snow chains, along with five JCB machines, will be stationed in Theog, Khadapathar, Kumarsain, Chopal, and Shimla to clear snow from the roads, thereby reducing the risk of accidents. Four ambulances will also be on standby to address any medical emergencies.

During this festive period, restrictions will be imposed on large commercial vehicles in Shimla. As per the plan, large trucks will be permitted to enter Shimla only between midnight and 8 a.m., with exceptions made for commercial vehicles transporting essential goods such as fuel.

Read Also: Affordable Retro-Modern Helmets: Get Yours for Less Than ₹1,000!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!