SHIMLA: The Himachal Pradesh government has taken a significant step by notifying the Draft Shimla Development Plan, aimed at effectively regulating construction activities in the capital city. This move, approved by the state cabinet, introduces new provisions concerning the number of floors, habitable attic, and garage in buildings.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the cabinet convened a meeting where the draft plan presented by the urban development department received clearance. Although initially approved by the previous government in February 2022, the plan faced obstacles as the National Green Tribunal (NGT) imposed stay orders, deeming it illegal and conflicting with earlier regulations from 2017 that aimed to control unplanned constructions in Shimla.

However, following a recent order by the Supreme Court on May 3, the draft plan was approved once again. Nonetheless, the apex court specified that the plan would not be immediately implemented, allowing for a one-month period from the date of publication of the notification, which was issued on June 20.

The newly proposed plan, named "Vision 2041," promises to open avenues for construction activities in 17 green belts, subject to certain restrictions, as well as in the core areas where construction had been banned by the NGT.

The plan provides detailed guidelines on various aspects, including the number of stories, parking facilities, attic specifications, and height restrictions for structures. Notably, the plan explicitly states that felling trees will not be permitted in green areas, reinforcing the government's commitment to environmental preservation.

As part of the plan, the government has already made the decision to declare the attic as a habitable area, allowing for an increased height of 3.5 meters.

The Development Plan encompasses a total area of 22,450 hectares, including the Municipal Corporation of Shimla, Special Area Development Authorities of Kufri, Shoghi, and Ghanahatti, and the Additional Shimla Planning Area, along with additional villages.

To ensure holistic development and address growing population and commercial needs, the plan proposes the establishment of activity-based counter-magnet towns in Jubbarhatti and Ghandal. These towns will offer essential urban amenities, including education, healthcare, trade, and commerce.

Additionally, satellite townships are to be developed in Ghandal, Fagu, Naldehra, and the Chamiyana Area near the four-lane bypass. This initiative aims to decongest the core area of Shimla and accommodate a larger population and commercial activities.

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