Not more than 1,000 vehicles will be able to ply from Manali to Rohtang. The National Green Tribunal has rejected the application of Him Aanchal Taxi Union. The union had sought permission to run 5,000 vehicles from Manali to Rohtang. The union had applied for modification of the orders passed in the year 2017. It was contended by way of application before the Tribunal that there is availability of more parking space at Gulaba, Marhi and Rohtang Pass. Due to increase in tourism activities, the number of vehicles sanctioned by the tribunal is insufficient, which is now required to be 5,000 vehicles per day between Manali and Rohtang.
Rejecting the union’s application, the tribunal said in its decision that the movement of vehicles cannot be increased due to glacier, climate change and adverse effect on the environment. Better air quality is not a ground to increase the vehicular figures. The tribunal observed that the availability of adequate parking space does not alter the situation for which orders to reduce vehicular movement were passed.
The High Court had taken cognizance in the year 2010, after the formation of NGT, the tribunal passed orders
In the year 2010, the High Court had taken cognizance of the letter addressed to the Chief Justice. It was alleged in the letter that daily 4000-5000 vehicles are plying from Manali towards Rohtang Pass causing huge damage to the environment. After the formation of the NGT, the High Court referred the matter to the tribunal. The tribunal sought a status report from the state authorities and on February 6, 2014, allowed the movement of one thousand vehicles.