HC notice to govt, MC on Solan ground commercialisation

The Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued notice to the state government, Municipal Corporation, Solan and local authorities on a Public Interest Litigation alleging that Thodo Ground in Solan is being diverted from its public use to commercial profit-making activities.

While issuing notices, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Jiya Lal Bhardwaj granted time to the state authorities to file their replies and listed the matter for further hearing on December 29.

The Public Interest Litigation contends that Thodo Ground has traditionally served as an open public space, used by residents for sports, yoga, morning walks, community functions and other recreational activities, contributing significantly to public health and overall well-being. Surrounded by residential colonies, schools, private and zonal hospitals, educational institutions, and commercial establishments, the ground is described as indispensable to Solan’s citizens due to its central location, accessibility and size.

However, the petitioner alleged that the local administration has been regularly allowing fairs, exhibitions and other commercial events at the ground, disturbing public peace and creating nuisance.