Kanwad mela sets in, hill bypass to be opened

Holy city is echoing with sounds of bol bum bum bum these days. On the third day of Kanwad Mela which began on July 27, the arrival of pilgrims reaching Haridwar to fetch Ganga water has gained momentum. Plans are afoot this time to open the hill bypass road during the peak season of Dak Kanwad when lakhs of Kanwadias on two wheelers enter the city making it nearly impossible to walk on roads. On regular weekends, the city faces traffic snarls for hours together and if the alternative traffic route of hill bypass road is opened during Kanwad rush this time, it will give a tremendous relief to the local residents and commuters.

Revamped at an estimated expenditure of Rs 32 crore, this hill bypass route which passes from the Rajaji Tiger Reserve is proposed to be opened during fairs and fests to ease the traffic in the city and the National Highway but last Kanwad season it could not be opened on account of delay in road repair works.

The Rajaji officials keep the road closed to maintain the environmental balance as it also comes under conservation zone but as per the High Court orders, the route shall be opened in dire need. The Kanwad pilgrims on the motor bikes give tough time to the cops managing the traffic during Dak Kanwad as has been the routine in the past years. The traffic police always give the alternative way to ease the traffic.

Speaking to The Pioneer, Haridwar Senior Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar VK said, “We have talked to the forest department and consent will be received soon for the opening of the hill bypass road. It is the only way to ease the traffic congestion.”