Himachal Pradesh Leads the Way in Sustainable Mountain Urbanization
In Kochi, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh’s PWD and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh shared exciting updates on how his state is turning into a shining example of sustainable urban development. Speaking at the Conclave on Sustainable Urbanisation and Climate-Resilient Development on Friday, Singh highlighted how Himachal balances growth with nature in one of India’s most sensitive ecological zones.
Himachal Pradesh faces unique challenges as a mountainous state, home to popular tourist spots, booming urban centers, and fragile ecosystems. "We’re not just building with concrete and steel," Singh said. "We’re protecting sacred sites like the peaks of Mount Kailash and ancient temples in Chamba, where millions seek spiritual peace." He stressed that urban development here must honor the dreams of its 75 lakh residents while safeguarding the Western Himalayas.
The state is pushing forward with a clear vision for climate-resilient urban growth. They’ve expanded the green building movement, adopting energy-efficient designs that cut environmental harm and boost living standards. Key steps include climate-smart building codes, urban vulnerability checks in master plans, and nature-based solutions like bioengineering for slope stability and smart water systems to secure supplies.
Singh pointed out innovative funding ideas, such as the Himachal Green Development Fund, earning money from carbon credits, and bonds tied to tourism infrastructure. The government is also boosting public-private-community partnerships to get locals involved in these projects.
Himachal has hit a major milestone—it’s the first Indian state to run on 100% renewable electricity. Cities like Shimla and Dharamshala are shifting to fully electric public transport, while cable cars and walking paths help reduce traffic jams. These efforts show Himachal’s commitment to sustainability and climate resilience.
Over the last decade, the state’s forest cover has jumped to 27.72%, the highest in India, thanks to smart policies that make development and conservation work hand-in-hand. But the 2023 monsoons—with heavy rains, cloudbursts in Kullu-Manali, and landslides—served as a wake-up call. "Climate resilience isn’t a choice; it’s essential for survival," Singh emphasized.
Tourism pumps in around Rs 15,000 crore yearly to Himachal’s economy, ensuring local communities gain while keeping the environment pristine. Singh envisions Himachal as the world’s first climate-positive mountain state by 2047, with other states and countries already adopting its models. Traditional architecture, temple protection zones, and sacred groves are now part of urban plans to preserve the state’s rich cultural heritage.
The conclave drew chief ministers, ministers, urban planners, climate experts, and over 1,000 participants from more than 10 countries, plus 60 speakers sharing ideas on sustainable urbanization. Earlier, Singh met Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and honored him.
Himachal’s story proves that smart urban development can thrive alongside nature, setting a blueprint for India’s mountains and beyond.
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