Launched to revive tourism, preserve heritage of historic Himachal town in Chamba
TNR News Network
Dalhousie:
To rejuvenate Dalhousie’s tourism potential and preserve its natural and historical charm, a new non-governmental organisation (NGO) titled “Beautiful & Green Dalhousie” has been formed. Veteran The Newz Radar journalist Subhash Mahajan has been appointed as the in-charge of the NGO.
Speaking at the launch, Subhash Mahajan highlighted Dalhousie’s unique identity as one of India’s most scenic and green hill stations. “Dalhousie is not only known for its greenery and beauty, but it also holds historical significance, having been established during British rule and named after Lord Dalhousie,” he said.
Tourism-dependent economy lagging behind
While Dalhousie remains visually stunning and historically rich, Subhash Mahajan pointed out that the region’s tourism-based economy has lagged significantly behind other Himachal destinations like Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Lahaul-Spiti and the Atal Tunnel area.
“The local population and hotel industry are entirely dependent on tourism for their livelihood,” Subhash Mahajan noted. “But due to two years of COVID-19 and four years of natural calamities, Dalhousie has remained on the backfoot for six consecutive years. Tourist numbers have dropped to nearly negligible.”
NGO to focus on revival, green conservation, youth engagement
Subhash Mahajan outlined the core objectives of Beautiful & Green Dalhousie, stating that the NGO would work to promote tourism, preserve the town’s greenery and natural environment, work towards developing basic infrastructure and improve regional connectivity.
He also emphasised that the NGO would take up social and charitable initiatives, especially targeting youth awareness on critical issues such as cybercrime and drug abuse. “This is not just about tourism. We want to involve the local community in a broader mission, one that ensures both environmental conservation and social responsibility,” he said.
The NGO plans to expand its reach across Dalhousie town, the cantonment area and surrounding regions, inviting locals from all backgrounds to become members. While Subhash Mahajan is currently heading the initiative, he stated that other office-bearers would be appointed in due course
