As tourism numbers continue to rise in the districts of Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh, the problem of unruly behaviour by tourists is also on the rise.
A recent incident of hooliganism at the Atal Tunnel-Rohtang near Manali has drawn significant attention. On March 23, a group of tourists was seen engaging in disruptive behaviour inside the tunnel, with a video of the incident going viral.
Vehicles of unruly tourists issued challans
In response, the Manali police have taken swift action by identifying the vehicles involved and issuing challans. To curb such incidents in the future, the Himachal Pradesh Police have outlined measures to increase surveillance and ensure better traffic management in the area.
The viral video, which captured tourists misbehaving inside the Atal Tunnel-Rohtang, shows a group of individuals performing push-ups and causing a ruckus while other vehicles were stopped inside the tunnel.
The disturbance occurred on the day of the Snow Marathon event in the Lahaul Valley, when vehicles were periodically halted.
The police were alerted about the situation, and upon investigation, it was revealed that a Delhi-registered vehicle and several youths were involved in the misbehaviour.
Several incidents of hooliganism in past too
After the video gained traction online, the Manali police took immediate action. The vehicles involved were identified and fines were issued under the Motor Vehicle Act sections 177 and 179.
A senior Himachal Pradesh Police official said that a fine of Rs 1,500 was slapped on the offending vehicles. The police have also instructed their personnel stationed at both ends of the tunnel to conduct regular patrols to prevent any further disruptions. The police said traffic rules violators would be fined.
In the past, several cases of tourists causing trouble in the area have been reported, leading to clashes with locals. The growing concerns about such incidents have prompted the Himachal Pradesh Police to enhance their efforts in maintaining discipline and safety in the Atal Tunnel-Rohtang region, ensuring that tourism does not come at the expense of public order.
Sunil Chadha
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