Himachal Pradesh: As the holiday season draws tourists to Himachal Pradesh to revel in Christmas and New Year festivities, the state is grappling with severe traffic congestion, leading to unconventional solutions and, in some cases, police intervention.
The River-Crossing SUV Saga:
In a viral video circulating on social media, an SUV owner in Lahaul and Spiti district took an inventive approach to evade the traffic nightmare. The driver, presumably frustrated with the gridlock, decided to cross the Chandra River in his Mahindra Thar, capturing the attention of online viewers. While the water level was reportedly not too deep, locals were displeased with the daring maneuver.
Police Crackdown on River-Crossing Stunt:
The Himachal Pradesh Police promptly responded to the viral video, issuing a challan to the SUV owner under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Mayank Chaudhry, the superintendent of police, emphasized the legal consequences of such actions and deployed personnel to prevent future offenses. The incident highlights the need for responsible driving, even in the face of holiday-related traffic congestion.
Traffic Chaos and Risky Stunts:
The influx of tourists celebrating the festive season has led to severe traffic congestion on roads connecting popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Amidst the chaos, some drivers resorted to risky stunts, endangering themselves and others. A video of a man driving with doors wide open, hanging precariously from one of them, made rounds on social media. The Kullu police, taking note of the reckless behavior, imposed a ₹3,500 fine on the driver.
Police Vigilance Amidst Holiday Rush:
Acknowledging the challenges posed by the surge in tourist arrivals, the police in Himachal Pradesh have intensified their presence at key locations to manage traffic and discourage reckless driving. The focus is not only on penalizing violators but also on ensuring the safety of both tourists and locals during this bustling holiday period.
Balancing Festivities and Safety:
While the holiday season brings joy and celebrations, the incidents in Himachal Pradesh underscore the importance of maintaining road safety and responsible behavior. As authorities take stringent measures to curb risky maneuvers and prevent traffic chaos, the focus remains on striking a balance between festive revelry and ensuring a safe and secure environment for all.
As Himachal Pradesh grapples with the challenges of managing a surge in tourists during the festive season, the incidents highlight the need for both visitors and residents to adhere to traffic regulations, fostering a spirit of responsible tourism.
