Himachal Pradesh Expands Green Belt in Shimla for Environmental Conservation

The Himachal Pradesh government has amended the Shimla Development Plan to enhance greenery by expanding green belt areas in Shimla and its suburbs. This move will strictly regulate residential construction in green belt areas, only allowing it on plots without trees. New areas will also be included under the green belt designation.

In a bid to enhance greenery and promote environmental conservation, the Himachal Pradesh government has amended the Shimla Development Plan to expand the green belt area encompassing the state capital and its suburbs.

The Shimla Development Plan 2041 mandates stringent regulations for residential construction in green belt areas. Construction will be allowed only on plots devoid of trees. Any plot containing trees, whether green or dry, will be designated as a green plot, prohibiting any construction activities.

The current green belts include forests bounded by the bye-pass and cart road, Nabha forest, Phagli and Lalpani forests, Bemloe forest, Himland forest, Khalini and Chhota Shimla forest areas, among others detailed in the plan. New areas under the designation include Retreat, Mashobra Band, Tukda Andri, Shiv Mandir Andri, Tal and Giri, DPF Khalini, BCS Mist Chamber, and Parimahal.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasized the government's commitment to planned and systematic development to restore Shimla's historical charm and ecological balance. "The increased forest cover is expected to mitigate soil erosion and bolster the state's environmental resilience," he added.

This initiative aims to preserve Shimla's natural heritage for future generations, balancing environmental conservation with development. The state government is dedicated to curbing haphazard construction in Shimla to maintain its aesthetic appeal and to make it a favorite destination for tourists.

"Green areas in Shimla are the city's lungs, crucial for maintaining environmental balance and enhancing quality of life," the Chief Minister noted.

(With inputs from agencies.)