Chandigarh tourist fined Rs 20,000 for driving on Manali’s restricted Mall Road
Babushahi Bureau
Manali (Punjab), June 16, 2026: A tourist from Chandigarh was fined ₹20,000 after allegedly driving a vehicle into the restricted Mall Road area in Manali, a pedestrian-only zone where vehicular movement is prohibited.
The incident came to light after a video of the vehicle entering the popular tourist promenade went viral on social media, prompting action by the police. Following an investigation, authorities identified the vehicle and initiated proceedings under the Motor Vehicles Act.
According to officials, the incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on June 15 when the Chandigarh-registered vehicle entered the restricted stretch of Mall Road, an area frequented by families, children, and tourists. Based on the findings, Kullu Police issued an e-challan of ₹20,000 under the relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.
Authorities said the challan has been issued and its status is currently pending.
Mall Road has remained a vehicle-free zone since 2008, when the then Himachal Pradesh government prohibited traffic movement in the area after the construction of a bypass road. Prior to that, the route formed part of the national highway passing through Manali.
Officials believe the driver may have mistakenly entered the restricted zone, reportedly due to confusion near a lane adjoining a local hotel where barricading is limited. However, police stressed that traffic regulations apply irrespective of intent and violations would invite strict action.
Following the incident, the administration issued an advisory urging visitors and local residents to strictly follow traffic rules and avoid entering restricted areas with vehicles. Authorities reiterated that similar violations would continue to attract stringent penalties in the interest of public safety and smooth pedestrian movement.
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of adhering to traffic regulations in tourist destinations, especially in designated pedestrian zones meant for the safety and convenience of visitors.