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India`s Favourite Hill Station On Verge Of Collapse? `Queen Of Hills` May Vanish If...
India has several hill destinations that often get overcrowded during the summer. Recently, the hill stations of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh faced the wrath of nature and landslides destroyed several areas and infrastructure. The rapid construction in hill areas has also raised serious alarm among the locals. Shimla, often referred to as the "Queen of Hills" and renowned for its natural beauty, attracts millions of tourists from across the country and abroad. However, this pride of India is now sinking. The hills of Shimla seem to be slowly giving way, and the situation has become a cause for serious concern among scientists and geological experts.
Fragile Terrain
The increasing human activity in the mountains has put unbearable pressure on Shimla’s fragile terrain. A town originally built for 30,000 residents now houses nearly 300,000 people. In addition, the continuous construction of roads and infrastructure by cutting into the hills has weakened the region's stability.
Alarming Condition
Shimla is part of the vital Himalayan belt, and many areas in this region are facing alarming conditions. Natural factors such as frequent earthquakes, heavy rainfall, and tectonic movements in the Himalayas are contributing to the growing instability.
Threat From Rapid Development
Human activities, including rapid development, extensive construction on the hills, and growing tourism, are further exacerbating the situation. In recent years, natural calamities have become more frequent in these mountain areas. Extreme heat has melted parts of the hills, heavy rains have washed away the soil, and the cold winters have had a separate, damaging impact on Shimla.
Cracks In Ridge Ground
Even the historic Ridge Ground, a landmark of Shimla and a major attraction for tourists, is now under threat. Reports of cracks appearing in the Ridge have heightened concerns among both the local municipal corporation and the city's residents.
Rapid Erosion
The fast-flowing drainage systems under Shimla’s hills worsen during the monsoon, leading to erosion underneath the villages and homes. This erosion is causing entire villages, homes, roads, and other structures to gradually slip downward, resulting in growing cracks in the buildings and infrastructure.
Destruction Warning
The warning signs of Shimla sinking are not just a local issue but a wake-up call for the entire Himachal region. Despite multiple warnings and past disasters, people remain hesitant to act. If destruction is to be averted, it is essential to stop tampering with nature and manage the pace of development. Otherwise, nature’s retribution will be more severe and devastating with each disaster.(Report by Sandeep Singh from Shimla)