Major relief likely from Shimla Development Plan: Jamwal

Shimla, Feb 16: State BJP General Secretary and Political Advisor to the HP Chief Minister Trilok Jamwal said that Shimla Development Plan released by the government would give a major relief to people affected by the NGT’s decision which had ban all types of construction in Shimla city. In a statement issued here on Wednesday he said that on November 6, 2017, NGT imposed a ban on all types of construction work in the core area of ​​ town, moreover only two and a half-storey building in the non-core area. He hoped that new development plan prepared by the government would provide relief to the People as SDP provide exemption in the construction bye laws in core area. Terming it a ‘watershed’ moment, he claimed that BJP government made it possible could not done in the last 40 years. Party said that contrary to NGT order, now construction of shops, commercial complexes and hotels in the core area and non-core area besides residential buildings in the state capital would be possible under the SDP. Terming it far reaching thinking of cabinet minister Suresh Bhardwaj Tarlok Jamwal said that plan to be brought in the council of ministers to give it final nod. Mr Jamwal also claimed that after its approval construction would be possible green belt without cutting trees. BJP leader said that new development plan was prepared on the instructions of NGT order which asked the state to give finality to SDP as for last 40yrs construction was being planned in the town as per Shimla Interim Development Plan to be replace by SDP after assent of cabinet. According to the new plan, a three-storey plus parking and attic can be constructed in non-core area, while a two-storey plus parking and attic can be constructed in a core area, one floor plus attic can be constructed in a green area without cutting trees. He said that in 2002, some areas were marked as green areas and where construction can take place, one floor plus attic can be constructed. The residents of the city would get major relief from the SDP also benefit the public at large.