Seeks reports from state Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary of Tourism
The Newz Radar
Shimla
The National Green Tribunal has taken strong note of the violation of environmental norms in Kufri, a tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh.
The NGT has summoned reports from the Chief Secretary of the state along with the Principal Secretary of Tourism and Environment. The tribunal heard the matter on July 12.
The environment is being harmed by natural and vegetative degradation. More than 1000 horses have been registered in the small area, exceeding capacity. Apart from this, pollution is being spread in the area due to a lack of solid waste management. In Kufri, adjacent to Shimla, the hoofs of horses have put the health of the villagers at risk. Due to the lack of cleanliness, people keep getting lung infections. People are also suffering from stomach diseases. Horse dung emits ammonia oxide gas.
Earlier, the state High Court had taken cognisance of the deplorable condition of Kufri. The court had ordered the government to implement the project report of the Rotary Club Shimla. The Rotary Club had prepared a detailed report to develop Kufri on the lines of Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Aharbal and Patnitop, the major tourist destinations of Jammu and Kashmir. The court had ordered the government to take appropriate steps to develop other tourist places in the state as well.
