PIONEER NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Police have issued a detailed traffic management plan to manage the heavy traffic pressure and ensure safety for the general public and tourists visiting Mussoorie over the weekend. In view of the increasing tourist influx during the ongoing travel season, especially on weekends when the number of vehicles entering Mussoorie exceeds 15,000 which is nearly four times the available parking capacity of about 4,590, the police have deployed additional personnel at key traffic points, parking areas, and busy spots. The Dehradun senior superintendent of police Ajai Singh said that the police have coordinated with various departments to stagger hotel check-in and check-out timings by a gap of three hours, aiming to reduce simultaneous vehicle movement. Traffic flow is also being monitored with drones and CCTV cameras linked to a central control room to ensure real-time response in case of congestion. Based on drone footage, diversion routes are being activated when needed. He said that the plan includes restriction of heavy vehicles in Mussoorie during both day and night hours, except those involved in essential services. Digital variable message displays across Dehradun and at 66 bus shelters will provide continuous updates on traffic status, diversions, landslide alerts and blockages to assist travellers. He said that the police also coordinated with departments such as SDRF, IMD and district administration to handle possible risks of landslides, floods, cloudbursts and accidents common in hilly terrain. QR codes and printed pamphlets are being used to provide visitors with route and parking information. Temporary parking zones with shuttle services are arranged at Kincraig and Gajji Band to ease pressure on central Mussoorie. Entry to some diversion routes, such as the Kimadi-Hathipaon route, will be restricted after 5 PM for safety due to its narrow and isolated condition. In the event of high traffic pressure, vehicles from Dehradun will be routed through alternative roads such as Ballupur-Kimadi-Hathipaon, while return traffic from Mussoorie will be directed via Bata ghat and old Mussoorie Road through Jharipani. The city police will be conducting 24/7 monitoring from key control points during the weekend to ensure uninterrupted traffic management. The SSP urged tourists to park only in designated spots, avoid driving in hilly areas at night, refrain from alcohol consumption while driving and strictly follow the issued traffic and diversion plans.
