The Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued a strong directive to the state government, demanding stricter control over vehicle passes for Shimla's historic sealed roads. The court expressed serious concern that excessive vehicular movement is destroying the colonial-era city's traditional pedestrian-friendly character.
Court Takes Stand Against Excessive Vehicle Passes
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Jiya Lal Bhardwaji noted that approximately 760 sealed-road passes were issued for both private and government vehicles between November 2024 and November 2025. These passes were authorized under Section 4 of the Shimla Road Users and Pedestrians (Public Safety and Convenience) Act, 2007.
The court emphasized that when considering pass renewals starting November 2025, authorities must strictly adhere to its earlier observations. The bench clearly stated that the large number of passes issued last year had significantly disrupted pedestrian convenience and affected the city's unique atmosphere.
Preserving Shimla's Cultural Heritage
In earlier remarks that resonated throughout the hearing, the court highlighted the cultural impact of unrestricted vehicle movement in the hill station. The judges poignantly observed that Shimla's traditional charm of walking with "umbrella and jacket" is rapidly fading and needs immediate restoration.
The court drew a concerning parallel with Mussoorie in Uttarakhand, where traffic congestion on sealed roads has already eroded pedestrian-friendly spaces. The bench issued a clear warning that Old Shimla risks losing its historic character if similar patterns continue unchecked.
Dangerous Retaining Wall Requires Urgent Attention
In a separate but equally critical matter raised in the petition, the court addressed the dangerous condition of a weakened 'Danga' (retaining wall) on the road from the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) to Ram Bazar, located below the deputy commissioner's office.
The petitioner had warned that the bulging structure poses a serious risk to life and property in the area. While the Shimla Municipal Corporation argued that the retaining wall belongs to a Church, the court examined photographic evidence showing the wall's strategic and sensitive location.
The court noted that the deteriorating structure poses a direct threat to school children and risks blocking the area's only access road if it collapses. Considering the imminent danger, the court directed the municipal corporation to undertake urgent maintenance and rectification work on the vulnerable structure.
The next hearing for both matters has been scheduled for January 8, 2026, when the court will review compliance with its directives aimed at preserving Shimla's unique character while ensuring public safety.
