MANALI: In an attempt to combat traffic jams, the authorities have decided to bring into force unidirectional traffic system on Manali-Rohtang highway from May.With the rise in temperature in the plains, lakhs of tourists from across the country head to Manali, particularly snow points of Rohtang, to get some respite. To prevent thousands of vehicles from getting stranded on the narrow road leading to Rohtang, the Kullu administration has decided to make the Rohtang highway one-way and impose a timing system. The highway leading to Manali town would also be made one-way.At a meeting with officials of all the departments, associations and stakeholders ahead of peak tourist season, Kullu deputy commissioner Yunus said vehicles going to Rohtang, Lahaul-Spiti, Pangi and Ladakh would be allowed till noon after which entry from Manali side would be restricted. “Once all vehicles reach Rohtang, the vehicles coming from the opposite direction would be allowed to come towards Manali. This will enable us to check traffic jams.”He said vehicles entering Manali town will have to take another route for exit. “A close watch will be kept on vehicles jumping the queue in case of a traffic jam or slow traffic movement,” Yunus added.Talking about compliance of National Green Tribunal (NGT) order on restricted movement towards Rohtang pass , the DC said permit would be issued only to 1,300 vehicles to go to Rohtang pass. Vehicles going to Lahaul-Spiti or Ladakh would not be allowed to return from Rohtang, he added.Vehicles violating the rules would be fined Rs 5,000 and could be impounded too, the DC said.Kullu SP Shalini Agnihotri said she has requested hoteliers, taxi operators and locals to cooperate with the police as there will be lesser number of police personnel to regulate traffic and check law and order in view of the Lok Sabha elections. Manali SDM Ashwani Kumar said volunteers can come forward to help the police in traffic management and sensitizing tourists at Rohtang pass.Meanwhile, PWD and NHAI officials have been asked to repair the roads and bridges before April 15 before the beginning of the summer rush.Clearing of garbage has also been ordered and electricity board officials have been ordered to make electricity available at Rohtang pass. Stakeholders have also suggested to improve local infrastructure. It was discussed that tourists would be encouraged to hand over the waste to their drivers who will keep trash bags with them and will deposit the same to the authority concerned.A sewage treatment plant would be set up at Marhi near Rohtang pass. Till then, mobile toilets would be stationed at major tourist places.Over 35 lakh tourists visit Manali every year and mid-April to June end is the peak season.

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