Roadside parking in Dharamsala intensifies traffic problems

The issue of roadside parking, especially in the narrow lane bisecting the Shamnagar-Ramnagar wards and other areas generally in front of shops in Dharamsala, is severely contributing to traffic jams.

The parking on the main road reduces the lane to half, doubling the chances of roadblocks.

“The situation is dangerous for the elderly, women and children. There is no regulation and requests are falling on deaf ears,” said Varun, a resident of Dari who keeps watching vehicles plying on the road from the balcony of his house.

The jam caused by the parked vehicles, especially trucks during the peak hours, is a nuisance. Sometimes it is virtually impossible for an ambulance to reach the designated place in time as there is no space to move.

A resident, Vikas Sood, said, “The ground reality is not hidden from government officials passing through roads, but who will bell the cat?” He suggested that minor efforts on part of the department concerned could bring about a major change. Many like Vikas feel that by taking proactive measures, the administration can mitigate the problem of roadside parking which will result in the reduction of traffic congestion, helping residents and visitors to Dharamsala.