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Warmer conditions trigger concerns about climate change

Shimla, a popular hill station once known for its snowy winters, has been experiencing warmer conditions, raising concerns about the effects of climate change. In the past, the town typically saw snowfall starting in early December, but in the last...
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<< Shimla, a popular hill station, was once known for its snowy winters. File
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Shimla, a popular hill station once known for its snowy winters, has been experiencing warmer conditions, raising concerns about the effects of climate change. In the past, the town typically saw snowfall starting in early December, but in the last 15 years, snowfall has been occurring later, in January or early February. Winters in Shimla, once characterised by severe cold temperatures and frequent chilling winds, have become increasingly rare over the years.

The warmer winters have become a major concern for locals. While some believe that the extensive construction and growing population have contributed to these changes, others point to deforestation over the decades as the major reason behind reduced snowfall in the area.

Although this winter season has witnessed several spells of rain and snow than last year, both the maximum and minimum temperatures have remained significantly higher than usual. The situation is such that many people, especially the younger generation, no longer need heavy clothing during the daytime. Hundreds of people can be seen strolling at The Mall and the Ridge without jackets or gloves, items once essential for braving the cold. The trend is observed throughout the town, where temperatures have generally been higher than in previous years.

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What is even more concerning is that January, the peak winter month, recorded unusually high temperatures this year. On January 3 and 4, the maximum temperature reached 22°C and 23.1°C, respectively - the highest January temperatures recorded in the past 19 years. Earlier, the highest recorded maximum temperature in January was 21.4°C, on January 30, 2006.

Manjeet, who has been living in Shimla for the last 40 years, said the town's winters and overall climate have drastically changed over the years. Talking of his childhood, he remembered eagerly waiting for the snowfall. “We used to look forward to the winters as we loved playing in the snow," he said. "Visiting the Ridge and The Mall during the winter season was a must as we enjoyed the sight of snow-covered trees and the Ridge. But now, I can't even recall the last time I experienced a winter with frequent spells of snowfall.”

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