The long-overdue Kainchi Dham bypass road will also be operational before June 15, a great boost to those who visit the renowned Kainchi Dham temple. It is also likely that the move will help a great deal in relieving traffic congestion in the area, particularly during the high pilgrimage period and during the yearly foundation day festivities of the temple.
Kainchi Dham, a place close to Bhowali, Nainital district, is visited by thousands of people on a daily basis, with the number of footfall increasing significantly during the month of June. Heavy traffic jams are reported annually on the small roads inaccessible to the shrine, thus inconveniencing pilgrims, residents and the emergency departments. The solution to this problem was the beginning of the bypass road by the Uttarakhand government, which was to direct through-traffic not to pass through the temple stretch.
The state government has instructed the relevant departments to make sure that the bypass is opened to vehicular traffic by June 15; however, it may be necessary to have temporary solutions. The deadline has been set with consideration of the huge number of rush that is expected during the Kainchi Dham foundation day fair, which brings in devotees of all nationalities.
The bypass links Bhowali-Sanatorium with Ratighat and forms an alternative route for vehicles that are heading towards Almora and other hill stations. After its functioning, it will alleviate the current Haldwani- Almora road and aid in easy traffic management within Kainchi Dham.
The officials have indicated that, though a few finishing works might go on, there would be temporary bridges and safety structures to sustain the continuous flow of vehicles. The administration has also directed officials to ensure strict quality and safety standards and hasten the rest of the work.
The news has been met with relief by the local residents and business owners, with hopes that the bypass will lead to a permanent solution to the traffic jams that have been plaguing the area. The tour operators also think that the connectivity, which is made easier, will increase tourism in the Kumaon region.
There was a time in the past when the jammed traffic on the peak days covered several kilometres, and the police were compelled to provide diversions and vehicle prohibition. As the bypass is now operational earlier than expected, people are very hopeful that there will be no small hitches in the traffic this season.
The administration has guaranteed that more traffic control policies will be put in place during the fair to have a hassle-free, safe experience among those who will visit Kainchi Dham.
