Amid growing concerns over worsening traffic congestion across Uttarakhand, social activist Anoop Nautiyal has proposed the implementation of a “Graded Response Action Plan” (GRAP)-based traffic management system in the state. In a formal proposal sent to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Nautiyal highlighted the urgent need for a structured and proactive framework to address the mounting vehicular pressure.
He pointed out that traffic congestion in Uttarakhand is no longer confined to peak tourist seasons. Due to the annual Char Dham Yatra, frequent long weekends, and extended holiday seasons, traffic pressure remains consistently high throughout much of the year. With the upcoming Delhi–Dehradun Expressway expected to significantly increase vehicle inflow, the already limited road capacity in the hill regions may face unprecedented strain. Nautiyal warned that without timely intervention, the state could witness a “traffic tsunami,” severely affecting daily life, environmental balance, governance, and emergency services.
Drawing inspiration from Delhi’s air pollution control mechanism, Nautiyal suggested adopting a phased, rule-based traffic management model similar to the Graded Response Action Plan. The proposed Uttarakhand Traffic GRAP would operate in four stages—ranging from mild congestion measures like traffic advisories and action against illegal parking, to stricter steps such as controlled vehicle entry, restrictions on non-essential heavy vehicles, work-from-home advisories, and temporary curbs on tourism movement during emergencies. Dedicated corridors for ambulances and disaster response services have also been recommended.
Additionally, he proposed establishing an independent body named the “Uttarakhand Commission for Traffic Management” to monitor traffic data, activate response stages, and coordinate inter-departmental efforts. If implemented, Uttarakhand could become the first state to create a dedicated commission for comprehensive traffic management.
