Environment
Another blunder by Shimla MC to which Pollution Control Board has turned a blind eye
Burning garbage including dry leaves is illegal according to Supreme Court’s interpretation of Article 21 of Indian Constitution. Also, it’s strictly prohibited under “Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) rules 2000”.
SHIMLA- Did you ever wonder why the very institution of State Pollution Control Board even exists? How often you read about initiatives or actions taken by the board to control air, soil, water, visual and noise pollution? No activity from the boards is visible.
However, effects of air pollution are clearly visible. The weather pattern has changed a lot, now Shimla receives lesser snow that melts away by evening. The average temperature in winters has increased in Shimla. The minimum temperature in Shimla is between 8 and 15 degree C, which is quite unusual while there is no perceptible change in the temperature at Manali, Bhuntar, Una and Sundernagar.In terms of rainfall, Himachal is rain over 70 percent deficient this winter, and level of ground water has dipped. In summers, water shortage is likely to haunt Shimla. Another bad news is that most of the baoris (small natural water reserves) have either dried or have been declared unsafe for drinking purpose.
So, emissions and air pollution are critical and sensitive issues to which both public and government are insensitive.
Previous Story: ‘Unusual rise’ in Shimla’s minimum temp – A big reason to worry
Other than vehicular emission, it’s a very common and regular scene around Shimla city to see heaps of fallen leaves burning on roadsides, even in drains. In Delhi, 30% of air pollution is caused by biomass (garbage, wood, and fallen leaves) and air quality of Delhi has reached alarming levels. Therefore, Delhi government has strictly warned people about facing maximum penalty (Rs. 20,000 – 1 lakh depending upon circumstances) stipulated by the National Green Tribunal to curb the rampant practice of garbage and green waste burning in the cities.
Previous Story: Why Himachal must act now to cut down diesel emissions
A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar had also taken notice of rampart burning of biomass and garbage had directed state governments of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh to immediately spread mass awareness regarding ill-effects of burning waste materials in open areas. NGT had clearly stated that,
It is on record before us that burning of garbage and other materials is not only source of air pollution but forms 29.4 per cent of air pollution with reference to PM10. Burning of material also causes serious respiratory problems and is even carcinogenic. There shall be complete prohibition on burning of any kind of garbage, leaves, waste, plastic, rubber or any such other materials in open areas.”
The bench had also added,
We direct that for every incident of burning of such material, the person who is found burning or responsible for burning would be liable to pay compensation in terms of Section 15 of the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 under the principle of polluter pays.
So, what Shimla MC and Pollution Control Board are waiting for – to get things worse, as it happened in Rohtang-Pass or in case of jaundice outbreak in Shimla due Ashwani Khud water contamination that has killed about 8 people so far and has landed thousands in hospitals?
Burning garbage including dry leaves is illegal according to Supreme Court’s interpretation of Article 21 of Indian Constitution. Also, it’s strictly prohibited under “Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) rules 2000”. Along with air pollution, it also poses many health hazards.
The health hazards caused by burning any kind of biomass including fallen, dry leaves and grass includes respiratory, neurological, cardiac diseases and even cancers due to long exposure to the smoke. Amount of carbon and toxic gases released is higher in biomass burning due to higher amount of moisture.
Click To View : Pollutants Released from Burning Biomass and Garbage and Related Health Effects
Fallen leaves make excellent compost if transported to waste management plants or to other specified facilities. Himachal is an agricultural state and compost could be supplied to growers. However, our talented IAS, HPS officers and politicians have chosen burning the leaves and garbage. Clearly, our government lacks vision and the public lacks awareness. Our government is always short of funds for such causes except for their luxury fleet of cars with beacons, fat salaries, and allowances.
Himachal Watcher is forwarding the complaint to Shimla MC and State Pollution Control Board and also expect people to understand why garbage and biomass must be properly disposed and not burn it. Places like Shimla need awareness drives organized by government and environmental groups.
Environment
Shimla: Retaining Wall Collapses During Four-Lane Construction, Residents Flee Homes to Save Lives
SHIMLA | 3 July 2025 –A major mishap occurred in the Lindi Dhar village of Shimla district during the ongoing four-lane highway construction, raising fresh concerns over safety and construction quality. A retaining wall, constructed as part of the project, collapsed once again—posing a serious threat to nearby homes and destroying hundreds of apple trees.
According to local residents, this is not the first time the wall has caved in. Despite previous incidents, authorities failed to take adequate corrective measures. The latest collapse forced several families to abandon their homes for safety, fearing further landslides and structural damage.
Villagers have accused the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and its contractors of negligence. They allege that no proper safety precautions were taken in the construction process, even though the area is known to be vulnerable to landslides.
“This wall had collapsed earlier too, but no permanent solution was provided. Now, we are facing the same threat again. Our lives and properties are at constant risk,” said a local resident.
The landslide also damaged a large number of apple orchards—adding to the losses of local farmers who depend on horticulture for their livelihood.
Residents have demanded immediate intervention from the administration and strict action against those responsible for the substandard construction. They have also urged NHAI to put in place robust safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Local officials have visited the site, and further assessment is awaited.
Environment
Police Complaint Alleges Criminal Negligence in Four-Lane Highway Project Between Parwanoo and Solan
Solan | 30 June 2025 – A police complaint has been filed at the Parwanoo Police Station in Solan district, alleging criminal negligence and environmental damage in the construction of the four-lane highway between Parwanoo and Solan. The complaint, submitted by former Deputy Mayor of Shimla Tikender Singh Panwar, accuses the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and its executing contractor, G R Infraprojects Limited, of serious lapses that have endangered lives, property, and the natural ecosystem.
According to the complaint, NHAI officials based at the Chakkar office in Shimla, along with planning teams at Rishikesh Sadan, Shanti Kutia, and the executing agency G R Infra, with its corporate office in Sector 18, Gurugram, failed in their duty to ensure minimal damage to the hilly terrain. It is alleged that the project was undertaken without proper consultation with the Geological Department, resulting in a project report that is “completely erroneous.”
Panwar contends that the design and method of slope cutting are fundamentally flawed, driven by ill-conceived ideas and profit motives.
“Instead of cutting the hills at a slope, the excavation has been done vertically,” the complaint states, warning that this approach poses a permanent threat to residents living near the construction site.
The complaint further highlights that since the beginning of the construction, there have been recurring losses of life and property, which the complainant attributes directly to unsafe and irresponsible construction practices.
Significantly, the complaint raises concerns about possible collusion between NHAI and GR Infra, and urges law enforcement to determine whether the negligence was circumstantial or the result of deliberate wrongdoing.
Panwar has demanded that both NHAI and G R Infraprojects Limited be held criminally liable and subjected to legal proceedings under relevant provisions.
As of now, neither NHAI nor G R Infra has issued an official response.
Environment
Himachal Bans Small PET Bottle, Rs 5,000 Fine on Littering of Single-Use Plastics, Compostable Bags
Shimla, May 27, 2025 – Small PET bottles (up to 500 ml) are littering Himachal Pradesh’s hills, forests, and water bodies, threatening its fragile ecosystem.
Ban on Small PET Bottles
Under the HP Non-Biodegradable Garbage (Control) Act, 1995, the state has banned these bottles in all government-organized indoor meetings, conferences, and events, effective June 1, 2025.
Impact on Hotels
The ban extends to HPTDC and private hotels, which must switch to glass bottles or steel water dispensers. A grace period allows clearing existing stocks to avoid financial losses.
Fines for Littering
A Rs 5,000 fine targets littering of single-use plastics, including compostable bags, by individuals, hotels, restaurants, and other institutions.
Mandatory Car Bins
From April 29, 2025, all taxis and public transport vehicles, including HRTC buses, must install ‘car bins’ for waste collection.
Enforcement Measures
Regional Transport Officers and Motor Vehicle Inspectors will verify bins during vehicle registration. Non-compliance incurs a Rs 10,000 fine, with Rs 1,500 for littering biodegradable waste.
Awareness Campaigns
Government bodies will conduct awareness campaigns to discourage small PET bottle use and promote sustainable practices.
Challenges
Himachal’s ban on small PET bottles and vehicle littering targets plastic pollution but faces challenges. Past bans faltered due to weak enforcement, especially in rural and tourist areas.
Small businesses may struggle with costly alternatives like glass or steel containers. Tourists, a major litter source, need better awareness. The car bin mandate requires rigorous monitoring to ensure compliance. Without robust recycling systems and public cooperation, the ban risks limited impact. Subsidizing eco-friendly options and strengthening enforcement are critical to protect Himachal’s ecosystem effectively.
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