DC: Shimla to get new traffic plan within 15 days

Shimla DC Anupam Kashyap announced that a new special traffic plan is being prepared to improve traffic management in the state capital. The plan will be implemented within the next 15 days and aims to involve public cooperation for more effective results.

Chairing a review meeting with office bearers of the Shimla Private Bus Operators’ Union, the DC highlighted the importance of gathering inputs from various stakeholders. “Persistent congestion needs urgent attention. This plan will integrate suggestions to enhance mobility for residents and tourists alike,” he said.

To better understand traffic patterns, especially from Upper Shimla, Lower Himachal, and Shoghi, the DSP (Traffic) has been asked to submit a detailed report using CCTV footage. The city currently sees daily entry of around 106 private buses and 182 HRTC buses.

“A strategy is being formulated to manage long-route buses more efficiently, minimising congestion caused by heavy motor vehicles,” the DC added. Discussions also focused on regulating loading and unloading times for commercial vehicles.

The district administration has appealed to the public to contribute suggestions for improving traffic flow. Locals can send their inputs in writing to the DC office or email them to admlo-sml-hp@nic.in by May 10. Suggestions are welcome on topics such as speed regulation, traffic signals, one-way systems, designated stoppages, heavy vehicle movement, and the operation of school buses and taxis.

A special committee, headed by the ADM (Law and Order), will review all suggestions and compile a detailed report for action.

Highlighting the town’s growing traffic challenges, the DC explained that Shimla was accessed via four major routes: Shimla-Mandi road through Totu and Boileauganj, Chandigarh-Solan-Shoghi road, Upper Shimla road at Dhalli, and the Karsog-Tattapani-Sunni-Shimla road, also at Dhalli. All traffic from these entry points merges onto the Circular Road, heavily used by government officials, students, tourists and transport vehicles.

Himachal Tribune