Shimla prepares to manage traffic during peak tourist season

Shimla: With over five lakh vehicles expected to enter Shimla and nearby areas within a month after December 20, Shimla deputy commissioner Anupam Kashyap on Monday, issued various directions pertaining to traffic management, deployment of additional manpower, and machinery to handle the tourist influx during the winter season.Chairing a meeting on road safety, the deputy commissioner said that a well-planned traffic arrangement to provide better facilities to both locals and tourists was the need of the hour. He added that crash barriers and other safety measures would be implemented in areas with the highest road accidents, such as Chaupal, Rampur, and Shimla city. Instructions were given to prepare proposals with a budget of Rs 40 lakh per area for further submission to the state govt within a week.Kashyap said that 80 home guards would be deployed to manage traffic besides traffic cops, and parking facilities would be provided for tourists at various locations in the city over the next month. Large trucks would be allowed to enter beyond Shoghi at designated times for the next month, and entry of large trucks into the city would be prohibited from 8 am to 12 noon, but they would be allowed via Anandpur. Trucks carrying essential items like petrol and diesel would be permitted entry, while their entry would be prohibited from 4 pm to 8 pm.Due to the snowfall season, 10 vehicles would be outsourced for the coming month. All these vehicles would be 4x4 equipped with snow chains and other tools. Additionally, five JCB machines (earthmovers) would be stationed at Theog, Kharapathar, Kumarsain, Chaupal, and Shimla to restore traffic. Four ambulances would also be stationed in Shimla city to provide immediate assistance to patients in emergencies.

Winds from snow capped Shimla turn Lucknow colder

Lucknow experienced its coldest day this winter, with temperatures plummeting to 6.6C due to westerly winds from the Himalayas. These chilly conditions, brought on by recent snowfall in the mountains, are expected to persist until Monday. While Lucknow enjoyed a sunny day, shallow fog is predicted for Thursday morning. Ayodhya recorded the state's lowest temperature at a frigid 4C.

Additional traffic personnel deployed at Mumbai Naka to streamline traffic

Traffic congestion woes continue at Nashik's Mumbai Naka junction due to ongoing road concreting. To combat the increased traffic, 28 traffic personnel and wardens have been deployed to manage the flow, particularly affecting motorists traveling towards Kathe Galli.

Photos: Asia's oldest ice skating rink in Shimla opens early this winter

Shimla's historic 104-year-old ice skating rink has opened early this season, bringing joy to winter sports enthusiasts. Despite facing infrastructure challenges and limited government support, the rink remains a beloved recreational hub. The upcoming winter carnival and potential national events promise an exciting season.

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