Shimla (Kameshwar Sharma): The New Township and Market Relocation plan has emerged as a key strategy to reduce traffic congestion in Shimla. A high-level cabinet sub-committee meeting discussed long-term solutions to ease pressure on the city’s roads and improve urban planning.
Revenue, Horticulture and Tribal Development Minister Jagat Singh Negi chaired the meeting. Rural Development Minister Anirudh Singh and Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh also participated in the discussion. The main focus remained on sustainable urban expansion and traffic decongestion.
Satellite Town and New Township Development
Under the New Township and Market Relocation strategy, the government proposed developing a new township in the BBN region. Additionally, officials also discussed developing a satellite town on the pattern of Chandigarh.
Officials informed the committee that they have already consolidated around 7,042–18 bighas of land for the project.
Therefore, groundwork for the township is already underway.
Moreover, the government is preparing a structured land pooling policy. This policy will align with successful models used in other states such as Punjab. As a result, planned urban expansion will become more efficient and organized.
Market Relocation to Reduce City Pressure
A major component of the New Township and Market Relocation plan involves shifting congested markets outside Shimla city.
The committee discussed relocating busy markets to newly developed areas along the four-lane highway. Consequently, this step will significantly reduce traffic pressure in the city center.
Furthermore, relocating markets will improve accessibility and reduce roadside congestion. It will also help in better traffic flow for residents and tourists.
Focus on Major Traffic Bottlenecks
The New Township and Market Relocation plan also includes addressing major traffic congestion points in Shimla city.
Officials reviewed several crowded junctions including Chhota Shimla Chowk, Sanjauli Chowk, Baluganj Junction, Tutikandi Junction, Dhalli Bypass, Kasumpti Junction, IGMC Bypass, Khalini Chowk, University Junction, Victory Tunnel area, Tolland Junction, and the local bus stand.
In addition, these areas were identified as critical traffic bottlenecks. Therefore, authorities emphasized immediate planning and redesign of these junctions.
Traffic Management and Road Discipline
The committee directed PWD, HPRIDC, and RTDC to conduct regular inspections of key junctions. They also instructed the departments to prepare time-bound action plans.
Moreover, the government will take strict measures against roadside parking. Officials clearly stated that blocking roads will not be allowed.
In addition, designated parking zones will be identified to ensure smooth traffic flow. Therefore, road discipline will play a crucial role in the success of the New Township and Market Relocation plan.
Entry Point Traffic Control
The committee also instructed police officials to strengthen traffic management at key entry points such as Shoghi and Dhami.
Furthermore, strict enforcement will help ensure smoother movement of vehicles. Authorities will also strictly control illegal parking across major routes.
As a result, improved traffic management will significantly enhance flow at Shimla’s entry and exit points.
Administrative Participation
MLA Harish Janartha, Director Urban Development Neeraj Kumar, Deputy Commissioner Shimla Anupam Kashyap, Municipal Commissioner Bhupendra Atri, and TCP department officials attended the meeting.
Therefore, the New Township and Market Relocation plan reflects a coordinated effort between multiple departments to improve Shimla’s urban infrastructure.
Key Points of the news
- New Township and Market Relocation plan discussed in cabinet meeting.
- Satellite town and BBN township proposed for urban expansion.
- 7,042–18 bighas land already consolidated for development.
- Markets to be shifted outside Shimla city to reduce congestion.
- Strict traffic control and parking rules to improve flow.
