"If the situation is not addressed on a war footing, this lovely hill town of ours will become a shadow of its former self"
Mussoorie, the picturesque hill station often dubbed the "Queen of the Hills", has long been a magnet for tourists seeking its cool climate and stunning vistas. However, the influx of visitors, especially during the peak tourist season, has turned this idyllic town into a hub of traffic chaos and parking woes. This persistent problem has escalated over the years, creating a significant nuisance for both residents and visitors.
Consider this: The official vehicle parking capacity in Mussoorie is a mere 2,000 vehicles. However, during the height of the tourist season, the number of cars entering the town far surpasses this limit. Daily, between 3,000 to 4,000 cars pass through the Kolhukhet barrier, where the eco-tax is collected. And this figure does not account for the local vehicles, which add to the already overburdened traffic situation. Additionally, traffic from Gangotri and Dhanaulti exacerbates the congestion.
Encroachment has significantly worsened the parking and traffic issues in Mussoorie. This problem extends up to the parking lots and is particularly severe between Gandhi Chowk and Picture Palace, stretching to Mullingar Chowk in Landour. These areas, which should facilitate smooth traffic flow, are instead clogged with unauthorized structures and vendors.
Library Chowk, the central node of Mussoorie’s traffic network, is a constant hub of brisk activity. This key intersection diverts traffic towards the Mall Road on one side, Kempty Falls and Company Garden on another, and the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration on yet another. It also leads to several resorts and schools, making it a critical point that bears the brunt of the town's traffic issues.
Where’s the infrastructure?
To make matters worse, most hotels in Mussoorie lack adequate parking facilities. As a result, guests' vehicles are often parked on the roads, blocking one of the two-lane roads and cause frequent traffic jams. This situation is particularly problematic in areas such as the Mall Road, where the influx of tourists and their vehicles exacerbates congestion.
The Nagar Palika Mussoorie barrier, located right at a major traffic junction, plays a significant role in the town's traffic woes. For a nominal fee, four-wheelers are allowed inside the Mall Road, which lacks designated parking spots. Tourists often park their vehicles haphazardly, causing traffic jams and creating a nuisance for pedestrians.
Other factors contributing to the traffic chaos include rental two-wheelers, VIP movements, and further encroachments by shops. Weekends are particularly nightmarish, with traffic jams starting as far back as Kuthal Gate in Dehradun. The situation is expected to worsen once the much-anticipated Dehradun-Delhi Expressway becomes operational, since it will likely bring even more vehicles into the already congested town.
Possible solutions and way forward
Addressing Mussoorie’s traffic and parking problems requires a comprehensive approach. Some areas to look at are:
Mussoorie's charm and natural beauty continue to draw visitors year-round. However, the growing traffic and parking issues threaten to overshadow the town's appeal. By adopting strategic measures and fostering collaboration between authorities, residents, and tourists, we can restore Mussoorie’s tranquillity and ensure it remains a beloved destination for future generations. As we enjoy the scenic vistas and pleasant climate, let us also commit to preserving the town’s charm by addressing its traffic and parking challenges with urgency and innovation.
The author was born and brought up in Dehradun and is a keen observer of societal changes and urban affairs in the city.
