District authorities across state tighten restrictions to prevent accidents, maintain law and order
Sunil Chadha
Shimla:
Planning a New Year getaway to Himachal Pradesh may come with serious consequences if safety rules are ignored. Tourists flouting official dos and don’ts during the peak winter season could face fines or even jail as district administrations across the state have tightened restrictions to prevent accidents and maintain law and order.
Keeping in view the heavy tourist inflow and heightened risk during winter, the Kullu district administration has issued strict orders under Section 111 of the Himachal Pradesh Police Act, 2007. The directives make it clear that violations during New Year celebrations will invite penal action, including imprisonment.
Entry banned near rivers, flood-prone zones
In Kullu, public movement has been prohibited in high flood level areas of rivers, rivulets, streams and other water bodies across the district. The restrictions apply equally to locals and tourists and will remain in force throughout the winter tourism season until further notice.
The ban has been imposed after repeated instances of visitors venturing close to riverbeds for photography, selfies and leisure activities, despite warnings from the administration. Areas such as Bajoura-Solang Nullah stretch, Bhuntar-Manikaran belt and the Tirthan Khud region in Banjar subdivision have witnessed frequent violations.
Winter hazards raise accident risk
Officials said winter conditions significantly increase the danger around water bodies. Sudden release of water from upstream areas or hydropower projects, icy surfaces, low temperatures and reduced physical response can quickly turn a casual outing into a life-threatening situation.
In the past, several accidents and cases of loss of life have been reported due to people entering restricted river zones. “These orders are purely in the interest of public safety and to prevent avoidable tragedies,” an official said, adding that only authorised activities related to adventure sports or livelihood will be allowed with prior permission from competent authorities.
Fines, jail term for defaulters
Those found violating the orders will be booked under Section 115 of the Himachal Pradesh Police Act, 2007. The punishment includes imprisonment of up to eight days, or a fine ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000, or both.
The district administration has appealed to tourists and residents to strictly follow the guidelines, especially during New Year celebrations when crowd density increases sharply. Visitors have been urged to avoid risky locations, follow local advisories and cooperate with authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season in the hills.
