Garkhal junction perennial bottleneck

The Garkhal junction on the Dharampur-Kasauli route has become a notorious bottleneck, as super deluxe buses struggle to navigate the narrow curve from Sanawar Road. This recurring issue leads to severe traffic jams, disrupting the lives of local residents and inconveniencing tourists visiting the area.

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These bulky buses, with protruding embellishments, frequently get stuck at the curve and take several minutes to pass through. The resulting gridlock spreads to roads leading to Kasauli, Brewery and Tickethatti, with vehicles queued for long stretches. Residents face significant challenges, unable to access essential services such as pharmacies or hospitals during these jams.

The problem is exacerbated by the growing tourist influx to Kasauli, where the Kasauli Planning Area — home to nearly 150 hotels, homestays and bed-and-breakfast units — faces significant pressure on its narrow, single-lane roads. Despite its deteriorating condition and lack of repairs, the shorter Sanawar Road remains the preferred route for most motorists, as it helps save fuel. Even super deluxe buses and heavy trucks use this route, worsening its state and contributing to frequent jams.

Adding to the congestion is the industrial traffic from the Baddi area. Multi-axle trucks carrying materials like iron, steel and quarry goods often converge at Garkhal junction. Many use the Patta Mehlog-Band-Tickethatti route to avoid excise barriers but struggle to negotiate the junction. These vehicles often travel up to Kimmughat, 2 km away, before finding space to turn back, further complicating the traffic flow.

The issue has caught the attention of the authorities. Solan Superintendent of Police Gaurav Singh acknowledged the problem and promised to explore solutions such as redirecting super deluxe buses to the wider Dharampur-Mangoti Mor route. Kasauli Sub-Divisional Magistrate Mahender also confirmed that measures are under consideration, including directing tourist buses to park at a distance from the junction to reduce congestion.

Meanwhile, residents have expressed frustration over the frequent disruptions. The incessant honking and long delays caused by traffic jams have become a daily nuisance, with locals blaming the traffic police for failing to implement effective management strategies.

Until concrete steps are taken, the Garkhal junction will continue to remain a critical traffic choke point, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades and more efficient traffic regulation.