With rising temperatures in the plains driving tourists to Himachal Pradesh
May 27, 2026: Shimla is facing severe traffic congestion following a sharp rise in tourist arrivals during the ongoing heatwave in the plains. According to police officials, more than 1.54 lakh vehicles entered the hill station over the past week, while nearly 70,000 vehicles arrived in just the last three days. Authorities said around 6.31 lakh vehicles have entered Shimla since May 1, putting immense pressure on the city’s traffic infrastructure.
Additional Superintendent of Police Abhishek said the district police have implemented an extensive traffic management plan to tackle congestion across the town. Around 32 traffic rider vehicles have been deployed on key routes to monitor movement and respond quickly to traffic-related issues. Police have also stationed interceptor vehicles to identify and record traffic violations through video surveillance. Officials said the city has been divided into five traffic sectors, each supervised by a gazetted officer, while volunteers are also assisting in maintaining order.
To reduce pressure in the main city area, vehicles travelling towards Upper Shimla are being diverted through the Mehli route from Shoghi. Police are regularly issuing traffic advisories and route updates through social media platforms to assist tourists and residents. Officials further stated that additional police personnel will be deployed after the ongoing panchayat elections conclude on May 31, as tourist arrivals are expected to rise further in June.