A surge in tourists seeking relief from soaring temperatures in the plains has led to a sharp increase in traffic across Himachal Pradesh, with nearly 7.8 lakh vehicles entering the Shimla region over
the past 29 days, police officials said.
The hill state is witnessing one of its busiest tourist seasons, as holidaymakers flock to popular destinations such as Shimla, Manali and Kullu to escape the summer heat. Despite the heavy rush, authorities said traffic movement has remained largely smooth due to enhanced management measures.
According to Shimla Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Abhishek, around 7.8 lakh vehicles entered the district through key entry points, including Shoghi, Bilaspur, Kinnaur and other border checkpoints during the past 29 days.
“During the last 29 days, around 7,80,000 vehicles have entered the region through various entry points. Despite this huge volume of traffic, Shimla Police has managed the situation effectively and there has been no major traffic jam anywhere,” th Shimla SP said.
He said the tourist season is currently at its peak, but police have successfully managed the increased traffic without any major congestion. “We urge tourists to use the Shoghi-Mehli Bypass and follow traffic rules for a comfortable journey,” he added.
The officer attributed the smooth traffic flow to strategic planning, increased deployment of personnel and the use of mobile traffic riders. He said traffic riders have proved particularly effective as they can quickly reach congestion points and respond to emerging situations, helping prevent traffic build-up.
25k-27k Vehicles Enter Kullu
The influx of tourists has also been felt strongly in Kullu district, where visitor numbers have risen significantly in recent days.
Kullu Superintendent of Police Madan Lal Kaushal said between 25,000 and 27,000 small and large vehicles have entered the district as tourists continue to arrive in large numbers. To manage the increased traffic and maintain public order, the district police have deployed around 150 police personnel and home guards.
Of these, around 60 to 70 personnel have been stationed in Manali, one of the state’s most visited tourist destinations during the summer season.
Kaushal said tourists have been visiting the district peacefully and appealed to motorists to avoid dangerous overtaking, which often contributes to traffic disruptions and accidents on the region’s narrow mountain roads.
(With inputs from ANI)
