Gulmarg – Jammu and Kashmir Introduces Odd-Even Traffic Plan for Tourist Vehicles
Gulmarg – Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have introduced a month-long pilot traffic regulation in Gulmarg to control the growing number of vehicles entering the popular hill destination. The new system, based on an odd-even vehicle formula, will come into effect from July 5 and continue until August 5. Officials say the move is aimed at reducing traffic congestion while protecting the environmentally sensitive alpine region during the peak tourist season.
Pilot Measure Introduced to Ease Traffic Pressure
The Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) announced the decision after observing a sharp rise in tourist arrivals and vehicle movement in recent months. According to an official order issued by GDA Chief Executive Officer Tariq Hussain, the increasing traffic has placed significant pressure on the resort’s limited road network, leading to long traffic queues, worsening air quality, higher noise pollution, and difficulties for emergency vehicles.
The administration also noted that the growing number of vehicles has affected public spaces and increased environmental stress on Gulmarg’s fragile mountain ecosystem, making traffic regulation necessary during the busy travel period.
Odd-Even Formula to Be Implemented for One Month
Under the pilot arrangement, all private and commercial four-wheelers will be allowed to enter Gulmarg based on the last digit of their vehicle registration number. Vehicles ending with odd numbers will be permitted entry only on odd calendar dates, while those carrying even-numbered registration digits will be allowed on even dates.
The restriction will remain in force every day between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm throughout the implementation period. Officials clarified that freight and goods-carrying vehicles will not be covered under the new traffic restrictions, allowing essential supplies to continue without interruption.
Decision Taken After Discussions With Stakeholders
The order states that the traffic management plan was finalised following consultations with various stakeholders who expressed concern over the increasing strain on the destination’s infrastructure. Authorities concluded that regulating vehicle movement was necessary to balance tourism growth with environmental protection.
The measure has been introduced under the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Development Act, 1970, along with other applicable legal provisions that empower the Gulmarg Development Authority to manage public infrastructure and development activities within the region.
Authorities to Review Results Before Long-Term Decision
Officials have described the initiative as a pilot project designed to evaluate whether controlled vehicle entry can improve traffic flow and reduce environmental impact without significantly affecting tourism. Data collected during the one-month trial will help determine the effectiveness of the system.
The administration has indicated that the policy may be modified, extended, or withdrawn after reviewing its performance and considering recommendations from the concerned government departments. The findings could also contribute to developing a long-term sustainable mobility strategy for Gulmarg.
Tourists and Residents Asked to Plan Travel Accordingly
The Gulmarg Development Authority has advised both visitors and local residents to check the applicable travel dates before planning their journeys to the hill resort. Officials believe that public cooperation will be essential for the successful implementation of the pilot project.
The initiative marks the first time an odd-even traffic regulation has been introduced in Gulmarg, reflecting the administration’s efforts to manage increasing tourist activity while preserving one of Jammu and Kashmir’s most ecologically sensitive destinations.
Tourists planning to visit the resort during the implementation period are encouraged to keep the new schedule in mind to avoid inconvenience and ensure smoother travel.