The Madras High Court has set daily limits on tourist vehicles entering Ooty and Kodaikanal from April to June 2025 to address traffic congestion and reduce environmental strain in these popular hill stations.
Ooty Vehicle Entry Limits:
- Weekdays: 6,000 vehicles
- Weekends: 8,000 vehicles
Kodaikanal Vehicle Entry Limits:
- Weekdays: 4,000 vehicles
- Weekends: 6,000 vehicles
Ruling by: Special bench of Justice N Sathish Kumar and Justice D Bharatha Chakravarthy.
Exemption Vehicle For Ooty & Kodaikanal Entry Permission
The Madras High Court, led by a special bench of Justices N Satheesh Kumar and Bharat Chakravarthy, has implemented vehicle restrictions for Ooty and Kodaikanal, with specific exemptions:
Exemptions Include:
- Public transport (buses, trains)
- Vehicles used by local residents (TN 43)
- Vehicles transporting agricultural produce
Additionally, the court has instructed authorities to prioritize electric vehicles when issuing e-passes for entry into these ecologically fragile regions. This step aims to promote sustainable tourism while protecting the environment.
Reason for the Entry Limit in Hills Station in Tamil Nadu
- Purpose: Protect the environment and ensure sustainable tourism.
- Location: Ooty and Kodaikanal (popular hill stations in South India).
- Implementation by: Madras High Court.
- Effective Period: April 1 to June.
- Objective: Regulate tourist influx and minimize ecological impact.
Madras High Court Implements Vehicle Restrictions in Nilgiris to Curb Over-Tourism and Protect Environment
The Madras High Court expressed concern over a state government report revealing that approximately 20,000 vehicles enter the Nilgiris daily, prompting immediate action to address the strain on ghat roads and the environment.
- Scientific Studies: IIM-Bangalore and IIT-Madras will conduct studies to determine the safe capacity of vehicles on these roads.
- Seasonal Traffic: During peak season, daily vehicle entries include 11,509 cars, 1,341 vans, 637 buses, and 6,524 two-wheelers.
- Tourist Accommodation: The Nilgiris can accommodate around 20,000 tourists, considering facilities managed by PWD, TTDC, horticulture, and forest departments.
Planning Your Trip to the Nilgiris:
1. E-Passes Required:
- Book e-passes in advance as they are limited.
- Electric vehicles receive priority for e-passes.
2. Public Transport:
- No e-pass needed if arriving by train or government bus.
- Consider public transport to avoid hassles.
3. Travel Tips:
- Travel on off-peak days to improve e-pass availability.
- Expect delays at checkpoints for e-pass verification.
Apply for E-Pass: Ensure you secure your e-pass before planning your trip.