Singh's comprehensive management plan emphasizes the deployment of 210 additional police personnel and home guards.
Shimla police have implemented a five-point strategy to manage record-breaking tourism, as approximately 15 lakh vehicles entered the hill station between May 1 and June 15. This initiative aims to curb the severe traffic congestion that has frequently paralyzed regional highways and vital link roads throughout the peak summer season.
Police Superintendent Gaurav Singh identified the frequent breakdown of heavy vehicles, particularly buses and trucks on the single-lane Cart Road, as a critical bottleneck. He explained that clearing these obstructions is often a time-consuming process, significantly worsening gridlock and causing long delays for both daily commuters and travelers navigating the area.
To address these challenges, Singh’s comprehensive management plan emphasizes the deployment of 210 additional police personnel and home guards. The strategy relies on increased surveillance by gazetted officers, the use of interceptor vehicles, and dedicated motorcycle-borne squads for rapid response. Furthermore, authorities are actively mapping alternate routes and promoting public transport to reduce vehicular density.
The current influx is driven by school summer vacations, leading to high occupancy rates in local hotels. Industry insiders report that mid-week footfall has reached 60-70 percent, while weekend occupancy surges to 90 percent. This demographic pressure has necessitated strict monitoring at major parking sites to prevent illegal roadside parking and facilitate smoother traffic flow.
Beyond these measures, the police are using social media to share real-time advisories, ensuring the city remains accessible for all visitors throughout the holiday period.
(With Inputs from PTI)