Chamba town mulls e-rickshaw service to ease traffic congestion

Intending to ease the traffic congestion and provide easy accessibility to the people, the Chamba administration is planning to introduce an e-rickshaw service linking various localities in the town.

Initially, the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and traffic police have been directed to identify suitable routes for e-rickshaws. Additionally, suggestions from the local business community will be considered before issuing route permits.

Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Priyanshu Khati, while chairing a meeting to this effect said people arriving in Chamba by bus, especially those heading to the medical college or the main market, often face commuting difficulties.

Besides, increasing vehicular traffic has worsened congestion in the city’s core areas. To improve public convenience and traffic management, the administration has initiated the e-rickshaw project. The e-rikshaw will also offer potentially cleaner and more efficient alternative to the other modes of transport.

The process of route identification has already begun. Officials are also exploring the feasibility of the service and ensuring that the interests of all stakeholders are safeguarded before implementation. Khati emphasized that the plan is currently in its initial phase, and further steps will be taken based on feedback received in upcoming meetings.

The introduction of e-rickshaws is expected to provide an eco-friendly and efficient mode of transport while alleviating traffic congestion in the city.

The meeting was attended by Chamba Regional Transport Officer Ram Prakash, Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) Regional Manager Shugal Singh and officials from Public Works Department (PWD), Chamba Municipal Corporation and Traffic Police.