Palampur: Green areas in danger due to urbanization

Himachal Pradesh: Rapid urbanisation in Palampur and its surrounding areas is threatening the greenery of the town, marring the beauty of this tea town in Himachal Pradesh. The uncontrolled development of concrete buildings has led to widespread deforestation, and the municipal corporation, forest department and other environmental agencies appear indifferent to the situation. Indiscriminate felling and pruning of trees has been observed, especially in areas where new residential colonies are being developed. Among the trees most affected are deodar trees, which symbolise the charm of Palampur, planted by the British 175 years ago. Over the past decade, more than 200 deodar trees have either been cut down, uprooted or left to dry in key areas, including the PWD Rest House, MC Office, Rotary Bhawan, old bus stand and SDM office premises. Despite the drastic fall in the number of trees, no investigation has been conducted to find out the reasons behind their sudden felling. What further aggravates the problem is the lack of reforestation efforts. Van Mahotsav is celebrated with pomp every year and tree plantation drives are carried out in the presence of VVIPs, but often due to negligence the saplings do not survive. Kulbhushan Ralhan, a local environmentalist who has been vocal on the issue, says, “The population of Palampur, which is currently around 60,000, is projected to reach 70,000 in the next five years. Indiscriminate human activities have brought us to the brink of environmental chaos.” Retired engineer-in-chief and former state government official Jatinder Katoch expressed concern over environmental degradation in the area. He says, “Scientists, engineers, senior politicians and civil servants settled in this city should contribute their expertise for the sustainable development of Palampur. Through public-private partnerships, we can promote social and environmental change.” Katoch also highlighted the importance of educating the public and working together with the state government to achieve these objectives. Nestled in the foothills of the Dhauladhar range, Palampur has long been a serene retreat for those wishing to escape the urban chaos. However, like other hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, the town is now on the verge of severe environmental degradation due to uncontrolled human activities. Urgent action is needed to preserve its green cover and restore its natural beauty before it is lost forever.