Lack of parking at Dharamsala cricket stadium causes chaos

The Dharamsala International Cricket Stadium attracts hundreds of tourists daily, yet it lacks a dedicated parking facility. With no nearby parking available, most tourist vehicles are parked along the road leading to the stadium, causing traffic congestion.

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Adding to the issue, street vendors have set up stalls around the stadium. Tourists often park near these stalls to buy snacks while waiting for entry, further narrowing the road and making it difficult for vehicles to pass.

According to Vivek Mahajan, a local resident, parking is available inside the stadium but is not accessible to private vehicles due to restrictions imposed by the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA). During major events like IPL or international matches, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) ground is used as a parking lot. However, on regular days, the SAI ground remains locked, leaving tourists with no choice but to park along the road. Mahajan argues that since the HPCA charges an entry fee for the stadium, it should also provide parking for visitors.

The congestion affects not just cricket fans but also athletes and students. The stadium is located near sports facilities managed by SAI, including a synthetic track used by national athletes for high-altitude training, as well as the Central University of Himachal Pradesh campus. The lack of parking space disrupts access to these facilities, causing inconvenience to those who train or study there.

Despite the stadium’s popularity and the influx of thousands of spectators during IPL and international matches, no dedicated parking lot has been developed. On match days, local authorities are forced to arrange parking far from the stadium, making it difficult for spectators. The HPCA has repeatedly urged the state government to allocate land for parking, but no action has been taken.

Dharamsala is set to host three IPL matches in May, but the parking crisis remains unresolved. Without a proper solution, traffic congestion and inconvenience will continue to plague tourists, locals, and authorities alike.