Jaipur's historic Walled City was packed to the brim with visitors this Saturday, as the Pink City's famous landmarks experienced a massive influx of tourists. Key attractions like the City Palace, Nahargarh Fort, and Amer Fort drew enormous crowds, leading to significant congestion in the core areas.
Traffic Snarls in Historic Bazaars
According to traffic officials, there was a heavy footfall of tourists inside the Walled City from the morning itself. The situation intensified by the afternoon, with a sharp increase in visitor numbers. This led to severe congestion in several iconic market areas and squares.
Areas around Badi Chaupar, Chhoti Chaupar, Tripolia Bazaar, and Chandpole Bazaar were particularly affected by the tourist rush and resulting traffic snarls throughout Saturday. Authorities have indicated that they anticipate a similar scenario to unfold on Sunday, given the ongoing tourist season.
Police Impose Restrictions Till January 10
To manage the unprecedented rush and ensure smoother movement, the Jaipur traffic police have implemented specific measures that will remain in effect until January 10. A senior traffic official outlined the steps taken to control the situation.
The most significant measure is a complete ban on the movement of e-rickshaws inside the Walled City. This ban aims to decongest the narrow lanes of the historic area. Additionally, the police have converted several roads in and around the Walled City into one-way routes to streamline vehicular movement and prevent gridlocks.
Managing the Peak Tourist Season
The surge in visitors is a typical feature of the holiday and winter season in Jaipur, a prime destination on India's tourist map. The combination of pleasant weather and vacation periods brings a large number of domestic and international tourists to the city's UNESCO-listed heritage sites.
While the influx is a boon for local businesses and the tourism economy, it poses a considerable challenge for city infrastructure and traffic management. The police's proactive measures, including the e-rickshaw ban and one-way systems, are a direct response to these recurring seasonal challenges. Residents and visitors are advised to plan their travel accordingly and expect delays when navigating the Walled City area until the restrictions are lifted on January 10.
