Shimla, Feb 7,
Shimla, once known for its pristine green cover, has taken another step toward environmental conservation. The state government has officially notified the inclusion of the Taradevi-Shoghi region in the city’s green zones, increasing the total number of such areas to 26.
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New boundaries and restrictions
The newly declared green area starts near Rajendra Kumar’s building on NH-5 in Shoghi and extends along the Shoghi-Mehli bypass, the railway overbridge, and the Taradevi railway station. It further stretches past Tunnel No. 91, reaching the Tutikandi-Airport Road on NH-5. This move effectively brings a significant portion of Taradevi’s temple region and surrounding forest land under stricter environmental regulations.
With this notification, all new private construction in this zone is prohibited, except for buildings on old approved lines. Even repair and renovation activities will now require approval from the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department.
Noteworthy that until last year, Shimla had only 17 green zones. However, in a significant expansion, the government identified eight new areas, including Charabra, Retreat, and parts of Summer Hill, adding them to the green conservation list. The latest inclusion of Taradevi further strengthens this environmental framework.
While urban expansion remains a growing concern in Himachal Pradesh’s capital, the government’s move underlines a deliberate attempt to balance infrastructure development with ecological conservation. Taradevi, known for its revered temple and lush green surroundings, will now enjoy added protection, ensuring that the region’s biodiversity and scenic beauty remain intact for future generations.
With this development, Shimla continues to reinforce its identity as a hill town that prioritizes sustainability, setting an example for other hill stations grappling with rapid urbanization.
