A viral social media video has captured an extraordinary traffic snarl at the high-altitude Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh, sparking intense debate. The footage, emerging as Delhi grapples with hazardous air quality, suggests a potential exodus of weary residents to the hills, raising alarms about the strain on ecologically sensitive regions.
Viral Video Highlights Alpine Gridlock
The video, shared by user Nikhil Saini on X (formerly Twitter), shows multiple long queues of vehicles, primarily white cars, brought to a complete standstill on the narrow mountain route. With zero to negligible movement, frustrated passengers are seen stepping out of their cars. The absence of snowfall, which typically attracts tourists, makes the scene even more puzzling. Loud honking fills the air, underscoring the chaos.
"Escape from toxic AQI or what? This jam isn’t on some city road, it’s Rohtang Pass. No snowfall yet. No vacations. Still such massive traffic. So what exactly is pulling everyone up there?" Saini wrote in his caption, directly linking the congestion to Delhi's pollution crisis.
Netizens React: A Cry for the Mountains
The video ignited a wave of mixed reactions online, focusing on the dangers of unregulated tourism and climate change. One user pointed out the irony, noting, "White and White and White Cars! No Snow but still everything is white." Another lamented the degradation, saying, "The mountains look less like a mountain pass, more like a road in Gurgaon or greater Noida West full of dirt only."
Many comments reflected deep concern for the environment. "Horrible as ever. Mountains are not calling anyone. They are screaming for help and want to avoid all cars," wrote one. Another offered a stark warning: "It’s striking to see such massive traffic... This is one of the most fragile ecological zones in the region, not equipped to handle such volumes of tourists... Without proper regulations... this could quickly turn into a serious catastrophe." The user called for urgent policies to manage visitor flow and protect the ecosystem.
Delhi's Air Quality: The Probable Catalyst
The video's timing coincides with a severe air pollution episode in the national capital. On Tuesday, Delhi recorded an AQI of 380, staying in the 'very poor' category, with reduced visibility and widespread complaints of breathing difficulties. While conditions saw a marginal improvement on Wednesday, the AQI remained 'very poor' at 329, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This persistent toxic haze appears to be driving residents to seek refuge in the cleaner, but vulnerable, Himalayan region.
The situation presents a complex dilemma: the right to seek clean air versus the urgent need to protect fragile mountain ecosystems from being loved to death. The viral traffic jam at Rohtang Pass serves as a visible symptom of this growing conflict.
