The Himachal Pradesh government has ordered a safety audit of the Atal Tunnel following a massive surge in tourist traffic that has pushed vehicle movement beyond its designed capacity. The tunnel, which connects Manali to Lahaul and Spiti, has been witnessing unprecedented congestion, raising serious safety concerns.
Traffic Exceeds Capacity
According to officials, the daily vehicle count has crossed the tunnel's maximum capacity of 3,000 vehicles per day. On peak days, over 5,000 vehicles have passed through, leading to long queues and delays. The tunnel, inaugurated in October 2020, was built to ease travel in the region but has become a victim of its own popularity.
Safety Concerns
The audit will assess ventilation, fire safety, emergency exits, and structural integrity under high traffic loads. Experts warn that prolonged overuse could strain the tunnel's systems. The state government has also restricted heavy vehicles and advised tourists to avoid peak hours.
Government Response
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated, "We are committed to ensuring the safety of travelers. The audit will be completed within a month, and necessary measures will be taken." The government is also considering an online booking system to regulate entry.
Local residents have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the tourism boom while others highlight the strain on infrastructure. The audit report is expected to recommend short-term and long-term solutions to manage the rush.
