Himachal Pradesh Gains Greener Pastures but Faces Environmental Challenges

Himachal Pradesh, known for its lush landscapes, has seen an encouraging rise in its forest cover, as per the Forest Survey of India (FSI) 2023 report. With a total geographical area of 55,673 square kilometers, the state now boasts 27.99% of its land under forest cover, translating to 15,580.35 square kilometers. This progress reflects sustained conservation efforts and improvements across all forest categories—very dense forest (VDF), moderately dense forest (MDF), and open forest (OF).

The very dense forest area now spans 3,117.60 square kilometers, marking a modest growth of 5.60 square kilometers. Moderately dense forests saw the most significant gain, increasing by 13.08 square kilometers to cover 7,280.29 square kilometers. Open forests, covering 5,182.46 square kilometers, showed minimal changes, while the scrub category, representing degraded land, remained steady at 308.69 square kilometers.

District-Wise Highlights

Sirmaur emerged as a leader, adding 20.46 square kilometers to its forested area and achieving 50.12% forest cover, the highest in the state. Solan followed with a gain of 12.08 square kilometers, increasing its forest cover to 46.92%. Mandi added 9 square kilometers, bringing its coverage to 45.32%. Shimla also made strides, gaining 4.12 square kilometers and reaching 47.46% forest cover.

However, not all districts fared well. Chamba and Kinnaur experienced reductions in forest cover, losing 1.12 and 0.51 square kilometers, respectively, largely due to infrastructure and hydropower projects. Hamirpur, Kullu, and Lahaul-Spiti recorded no significant changes.

Green Gains Amidst Growing Threats

While the state has added 54.73 square kilometers of forest cover since the 2021 assessment, challenges persist. Infrastructure development, forest fires, and the growing impacts of climate change pose serious threats to these gains. Himachal Pradesh’s forests are not just ecological treasures—they are vital for combating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and maintaining the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

Efforts to achieve the National Forest Policy target of 33% forest cover must be intensified. Afforestation drives, stricter laws against illegal logging, and innovative measures to mitigate forest degradation are essential to ensure the state’s green legacy endures for generations to come.