Shimla Green Belt area increased gives boost to environmental conservation

In a significant move to enhance greenery and promote environmental conservation, the State Government has amended the Shimla Development Plan. The amendment aims to expand the Green Belt Area within the Shimla Planning Area, covering both the town and its suburbs. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasized the government’s commitment to the planned and systematic development of Shimla, with a focus on restoring its historical charm and ecological balance. The increased forest cover is expected to mitigate soil erosion and strengthen the state’s environmental resilience.

Under the Shimla Development Plan 2041, residential construction within the Green Belt Area will be strictly regulated. Only plots devoid of trees will be eligible for construction. Any plot containing trees, whether green or dry, will be designated as a green plot, prohibiting construction activities.

The existing Green Belt areas 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. Additionally, the government has identified new areas to be included under the Green Belt designation, such as Retreat, Mashobra Band, Tukda Andri, Shiv Mandir Andri, Tal and Giri, D.P.F. Khalini, B.C.S. Mist Chamber, and Parimahal.