The Himachal Pradesh cabinet has made significant amendments to the Shimla Development Plan, allowing residential construction in specific green belt areas while prioritizing tree conservation. Changes to HP Town and Country Planning Rules permit construction near water bodies, balancing land use and safety. The "Van Mitra" scheme engages communities in forest conservation, and the recruitment of forest guards strengthens conservation efforts. The cabinet also approved a passenger ropeway system, promoted amateur radios for emergency communication, and streamlined traffic regulation enforcement. These decisions signify a comprehensive approach to sustainable urban development, environmental conservation, and community engagement in Himachal Pradesh.
In a recent decision, the Himachal Pradesh cabinet made significant amendments to the Shimla Development Plan, signalling a shift in the region's urban landscape. The amendment primarily focuses on the green belt area situated above the road from Navbahar to Ram Chandra Chowk to Machhiwali Kothi to Christ Church to Lakkar Bazar to IGMC to Sanjauli Chowk to Navbhar, a region previously restricted from construction due to its ecological significance.
Under the revised plan, residential construction will be permitted in the green belt areas only on plots devoid of trees, striking a balance between urban development and environmental conservation. This decision aligns with the government's vision for sustainable growth, emphasizing responsible land use.
Additionally, the cabinet introduced modifications to the HP Town and Country Planning Rules, allowing construction within five meters of nullahs and even meters from khads. This adjustment aims to optimize land utilisation while ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and facilitating planned urban expansion.
In a move towards community engagement and forest conservation, the cabinet approved the "Van Mitra" scheme initiated by the forest department. Under this scheme, each of the 2,061 forest beats will have a designated "Van Mitra" to enhance local community participation in forest protection, conservation, and development efforts. Furthermore, the cabinet greenlit the recruitment of 100 forest guards on a contractual basis, bolstering the state's forest department workforce for improved conservation initiatives.
Additionally, the cabinet granted its in-principle approval for the establishment of a passenger ropeway system from Chintpurni Baba Mai Dass Bhawan parking to Chintpurni temple in the Una district. With an estimated cost of Rs 76.50 crore, this public-private partnership project aims to facilitate pilgrims and promote tourism in the region, enhancing connectivity and accessibility to religious sites.
Furthermore, the cabinet endorsed the promotion of amateur and community radios for alternate communication during emergencies across all districts of the state. This initiative facilitates effective information exchange between various stakeholders, emergency managers, and communities impacted by disasters or emergent situations.
Additionally, the cabinet authorized the designation of traffic inspectors, motor vehicle inspectors, senior motor vehicle inspectors from the transport department, and assistant sub-inspectors and head constables from the police department as designated authorities to compound offences under various sections of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988. This decision streamlines the enforcement process, ensuring a more efficient implementation of traffic regulations.
In conclusion, the Himachal Pradesh cabinet's recent decisions reflect a comprehensive approach to urban development, environmental conservation, community engagement, and safety enhancement, paving the way for a more sustainable and well-connected future for the state.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
