Shimla, April 2: The Himachal Pradesh Assembly has approved a stringent law aimed at regulating traffic and enhancing pedestrian safety in Shimla. On Wednesday, the assembly passed the ‘Shimla Road Users and Pedestrians (Public Safety and Convenience) Amendment Bill, 2026’ by voice vote. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu introduced the bill. During the discussion, BJP legislators staged a walkout, allowing the bill to pass without opposition.
Under the new law, a fine of ₹15,000 will be imposed for driving vehicles on sealed roads without a permit. Additionally, entering restricted roads without permission will incur a fine of ₹5,000, while violations of permit conditions will attract a penalty of ₹2,000.
The government states that the primary aim of this initiative is to preserve Shimla’s traditional pedestrian culture, particularly in areas like Mall Road and The Ridge, which have long been designated for foot traffic only. The new regulations include major routes such as the path from Nabha to The Ridge, from Chhota Shimla to Mall and The Ridge, from IGMC to The Ridge, from AG Office to CTO, and from Boulighanj to Advanced Study, all categorized as sealed and restricted.
Moreover, there has been a significant increase in permit fees. The annual permit fee has risen from ₹2,500 to ₹15,000, while the daily fee has increased from ₹200 to ₹1,000. The processing fee has also been raised from ₹100 to ₹500.
Administrative changes have been implemented as well. The authority to issue permits for restricted roads has been transferred from the Deputy Commissioner to the Home Secretary. Authorized police personnel are now empowered to collect up to 50% of the fines on-site, facilitating immediate resolution of cases.
This decision follows remarks from the High Court, which indicated that the growing number of vehicles is causing Shimla to lose its traditional pedestrian culture. The government believes that this law will reduce traffic pressure, enhance pedestrian safety, and help preserve the city’s heritage.
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