More area for green belts in Shimla

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Shimla, July 21

To enhance greenery and promote environmental conservation, the state government has added additional areas to the green belts of Retreat, Mashobra Band, Tukda Andri, Shiv Mandir Andri, Tal and Giri, DPF Khalini, BCS Mist Chamber, and Parimahal. “The decision to this effect was taken in the last Cabinet,” said a government spokesperson.

These eight areas were notified as green belts in January earlier this year, taking the total number of green belts to 25 in the Shimla Planning area.

“This initiative aims to preserve Shimla’s natural heritage, ensuring a greener and healthier future for upcoming generations. We must maintain a balance between environmental conservation and development. The state government is committed to curbing haphazard construction in Shimla to preserve its aesthetic appeal, making it a favourite destination for tourists,” said Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

According to the Shimla Development Plan 2041, residential construction within the Green Belt Area is strictly regulated. Construction will only be permitted 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 areas currently designated as Green Belts include forests bounded by the bypass and cart road, Nabha forest, Phagli and Lalpani forests, Bemloe forest, Himland forest, Khalini and Chhota Shimla forest areas and several others detailed in the plan. The green areas in Shimla are the city’s lungs, crucial for maintaining environmental balance and enhancing quality of life.

Besides, these green spaces enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal, offering residents and tourist places for recreation and relaxation. The increased forest cover is expected to mitigate soil erosion and bolster the state’s environmental resilience.

Preserving natural heritage

This initiative aims to preserve Shimla’s natural heritage, ensuring a greener and healthier future for upcoming generations. We must maintain a balance between environment conservation and development. The state government is committed to curbing haphazard construction in Shimla. — Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister