Concerns Rise Over Traffic Safety at Palampur Bypass in Himachal Pradesh

Growing Safety Concerns Among Commuters

Vikal Sharma

Palampur: Local residents and daily commuters are increasingly alarmed by a dangerous traffic situation at the Palampur bypass in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh. The lack of adequate traffic signals and vehicle management has transformed this area into what many consider a hazardous zone prone to accidents.

Commuters report that the stretch has become more perilous due to the unregulated flow of fast-moving vehicles from various directions. A local shopkeeper who uses the bypass daily remarked, “Buses speeding down from Palampur and vehicles ascending from the opposite side create a chaotic scene. There’s no effective system in place to manage this disorder.”

High-Speed Traffic and Congestion Issues

Vehicles traveling from Pachrukhi towards Palampur frequently encounter congestion at the junction, exacerbating the risk. Residents have noted that due to the lack of coordination, vehicles often have to maneuver carefully to navigate the area. Even motorbikes speed through recklessly, adding to the chaos.

“There are times when we feel an accident could happen at any moment,” shared Preeti, a college student who waits at the junction each morning for her bus. “We’ve witnessed numerous near-misses, which have become a source of anxiety during our daily commutes.”

Urgent Need for Traffic Signals

Community members are calling on local authorities to install traffic signals and improve traffic management at this critical point. Many believe that implementing basic measures such as zebra crossings, warning signs, and having traffic police present during busy hours could significantly enhance safety.

“This area is frequented by hundreds daily, including schoolchildren, office workers, and elderly residents. A proper traffic control system is long overdue,” stated Kuldeep, a local villager. Despite numerous requests from the community, no substantial action has been taken yet. With the increasing volume of traffic on the bypass, residents worry that a serious accident is imminent if timely measures are not adopted.