Garhwal Post Bureau
Mussoorie, 22 May: To provide relief from the persistent traffic jams plaguing the city during the tourism season, the administration launched a shuttle service here on Friday. Under the leadership of SDM Rahul Anand, a joint team comprising the police and the municipal corporation intercepted Tempo Travellers arriving from Dehradun near the Mussoorie Petrol Pump at Kincraig; from there, tourists were transported to their respective destinations using the shuttle service.
Upon the implementation of the shuttle service, some tourists expressed their displeasure. They argued that the new arrangement had not been adequately publicised, leading them to book Tempo Travellers from Dehradun specifically for their sightseeing trip to Mussoorie. The tourists stated that had they been informed in advance, they would have opted to travel in smaller vehicles. They appealed to the administration to disseminate information regarding such new arrangements on a wider scale well in advance, thereby ensuring that tourists do not have to face any inconvenience.
SDM Rahul Anand explained that preparations for the shuttle service had been underway for several days, and information regarding the initiative had already been shared with all stakeholders following a series of meetings. He acknowledged that while it is natural to encounter some initial teething troubles, the arrangements would be further refined and improved over time. He noted that the entry of Tempo Travellers into the city was causing severe traffic congestion on Mall Road and other major thoroughfares. In light of this, during the first phase of the initiative, large vehicles are being halted at Kincraig, and tourists are being transported into Mussoorie via dedicated shuttle vehicles. A fare of Rs 50 per passenger has been fixed, and adequate vehicles have been made available for this purpose through coordination with both local taxi unions.
Mussoorie Kotwal (Station House Officer) Devendra Chauhan stated that the police and the administration are working jointly to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the shuttle service. He added that appeals for cooperation are being made to the operators of Tempo Travellers to prevent the recurrence of traffic congestion within the city. He clarified that all arrangements are being managed in strict accordance with the regulations, and action will be taken against anyone found violating these rules. Additionally, the Municipality’s city bus service has been launched for the convenience of tourists—an initiative that has been well-received and appreciated by the local residents. The administration states that this arrangement will help alleviate traffic congestion during the tourist season, providing relief to both visitors and locals alike.
