Unregulated construction turns Bir Billing into a concrete jungle

Bir Billing, a globally renowned paragliding destination, is facing an alarming transformation due to unchecked and unregulated construction. Rampant development of hotels, shops and commercial establishments has turned this serene hill station into a concrete jungle, leaving visitors disappointed rather than rejuvenated. Problems such as water shortages, inadequate parking and poorly maintained roads have made once-idyllic vacations into nightmares.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had earlier directed the state government to assess the carrying capacity of hill towns, particularly tourist destinations, in light of construction violations. Despite this, there has been little progress in regulating development. Kangra, situated in seismic zone V and highly vulnerable to earthquakes, requires strict adherence to building norms. However, the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department’s lack of oversight has exacerbated the situation, with violations becoming more rampant over the past two years.

The Special Area Development Authority (SADA), established to oversee construction in Bir Billing, has failed to control the unplanned expansion. The unchecked growth has drastically reduced open areas critical for paragliders’ safe landings. Construction near both the takeoff and landing sites poses serious safety risks. Additionally, improper parking near the landing zone has created further chaos.

Tourist influx over the years has spurred the proliferation of hotels, restaurants, and shops, resulting in the loss of open spaces vital for paragliding activities. Locals and hoteliers warn that unless immediate action is taken, Bir Billing will no longer be able to support its primary attraction.

Despite the imposition of green taxes and pilot fee by SADA, tourists are not seeing improved facilities. Meanwhile, illegal multi-story constructions, including a hazardous parking structure by the state tourism department, have also drawn attention. The Himachal Pradesh High Court intervened, ordering the dismantling of one story of the illegal parking building, which was later razed.

Residents blame stringent TCP laws and bureaucratic delays for exacerbating the crisis. Lengthy approval processes have driven many to resort to illegal construction. The lack of timely action has fueled unregulated growth, further diminishing the region’s aesthetic and functional appeal.

The TCP department claims to have identified illegal constructions and issued notices to violators. However, progress has been slow. In response to a news report by The Tribune, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has treated the matter as a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), emphasising the urgency of addressing the unchecked development.

As Bir Billing faces these challenges, the need for sustainable development has never been greater. Without immediate and effective intervention, this world-famous paragliding destination risks losing its charm, functionality and reputation.

Key concerns

• Unregulated Growth: Construction near takeoff and landing sites poses safety risks & reduces open areas for paragliders
• Dept’s inaction: Town and Country Planning department’s inaction has exacerbated violations
• Environmental impact: Loss of open spaces vital for paragliding activities