Sunday, November 24, 2024 Nainital and Kainchi Dham in Uttarakhand face a severe parking crisis as tourist numbers surge, overwhelming existing infrastructure and causing traffic woes. Two of Uttarakhand’s most renowned destinations, Nainital and Kainchi Dham, are grappling with an escalating parking crisis as surging tourist numbers strain the region’s infrastructure. Nainital, a premier hill station known for its serene lakes and picturesque landscapes, is particularly hard-hit by the influx of vehicles.

Similarly, Kainchi Dham, famed for its spiritual ambiance, has also become a hotspot for vehicular congestion. The limited parking capacity in these areas has led to severe overcrowding, with existing facilities accommodating only around 4,000 vehicles. This shortfall is especially pronounced during peak tourist seasons, such as holidays and weekends, when the number of visitors far exceeds this capacity.

As a result, narrow streets and residential zones have been overwhelmed by spillover traffic, causing inconvenience for both locals and tourists. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the district administration has begun exploring alternative solutions. Efforts are focused on developing new parking facilities in nearby locations like Ranibagh and Kathgodam.

These proposed projects aim to add approximately 2,500 additional parking spaces, offering much-needed relief to the congested hill station. To further reduce traffic within Nainital, authorities have introduc.