Shimla’s Traffic Relief Plan: Long-Distance Buses Rerouted to Ease City Congestion

A New Chapter in Shimla’s Urban Mobility

Shimla, the picturesque capital of Himachal Pradesh, is taking a bold step to reclaim its roads from chronic congestion. In a move that’s already reshaping daily commutes, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has rerouted all long-distance buses—those coming from over 40 kilometers away—to terminate at the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) in Tutikandi. This shift, prompted by directives from the district administration, is designed to ease the pressure on the city’s narrow and often overcrowded streets.

Why This Matters

The change comes after mounting pressure from local private bus operators, who argued that large HRTC buses were disrupting local services and worsening traffic jams. Their union had even threatened a strike beginning November 3 if action wasn’t taken. Responding swiftly, the District Magistrate issued orders on November 1 to enforce the new routing plan.

Routes That Will Now End at ISBT

Passengers traveling from key locations such as Kullu, Dharamshala, Bilaspur, Paonta, and 14 other long-distance routes will now disembark at ISBT Tutikandi—roughly 4 kilometers from Shimla’s city center. This change is expected to reduce congestion at the old bus stand and surrounding areas.

The Broader Strategy

This rerouting is part of a larger traffic management initiative that’s been in discussion since mid-October. With nearly 200 HRTC buses and 106 private buses operating within Shimla, the influx of long-route vehicles had created bottlenecks at critical junctions like Baluganj and Victory Tunnel, especially during rush hours. The new plan aims to streamline traffic flow and improve overall commuter experience.

School Transport Gets a Makeover

HRTC has also revised its school bus operations. Buses serving institutions such as Edward School and Auckland House School must now adhere strictly to their designated routes and are prohibited from picking up passengers en route. This measure is intended to reduce route deviations and ensure safer, more predictable school commutes.

Public Sentiment and Concerns

While officials are optimistic about the long-term benefits, not everyone is on board. Some residents worry about the added inconvenience of reaching ISBT, particularly for elderly passengers or those unfamiliar with local transport options. However, ISBT is well-connected via city buses and taxis, and offers amenities like eateries, shops, and parking facilities to ease the transition.

Looking Ahead

Whether this rerouting will deliver the promised relief or spark new challenges remains to be seen. For now, Shimla is embracing a new traffic blueprint—one that prioritizes smoother commutes and a more breathable cityscape.

Would you like help navigating from ISBT to your destination or exploring local transport options? I can map out the best routes for you.