To decongest Himachal Pradesh's summer capital and ensure smooth traffic flow, a transport city will be established outside Shimla. Shimla Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anupam Kashyap made the announcement on Tuesday during a meeting regarding the relocation of Sabzi Mandi, Anaj Mandi, and Lakkar Mandi from the city and the establishment of a Transport Nagar.
Inspection of Proposed Land
Kashyap said a joint inspection of 300 bighas of proposed land near Mehli was conducted on Tuesday. Officials from the Revenue Department, Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC), Transport Department, Municipal Corporation, and Public Works Department participated in the inspection. The DC expressed concern over the rising vehicular inflow in Shimla, stating that maintaining smooth traffic movement is a major challenge due to increasing traffic pressure in various markets. Therefore, relocating certain markets is necessary to decongest the city and its roads.
Plans for Market Relocation
'To effectively address this challenge, plans are underway to relocate major markets outside the city and establish a transport city outside Shimla,' said Kashyap. He added that the proposed 300 bighas of land is suitable for relocating these markets and establishing a transport city. Furthermore, the land is adjacent to the under-construction Mehli-Shoghi four-lane, which will provide improved transportation facilities for the public and commission agents.
Impact on Traffic and Tourism
The move aims to reduce congestion in Shimla, which experiences heavy tourist inflows, especially during peak seasons. The transport city is expected to streamline traffic and improve the overall experience for visitors and residents alike. The administration has already taken steps towards shifting major markets and motor markets from the city, and work is underway.
