Shimla: HP Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has eased up the construction activities in the green belt of Shimla city and approved several crucial initiatives and policy changes.
Among the top decisions is construction Amendments: Amendments to the Shimla Development Plan and H.P. Town and Country Planning Rules will allow construction in specific green belt areas and at set distances from water bodies.
'Van Mitra' Scheme: The Cabinet has approved the 'Van Mitra' Scheme by the Forest Department, aiming to engage local communities in safeguarding and developing forest areas. They will recruit 'Van Mitra' individuals in 2061 Forest Beats.
Boosting Forest Guards: To enhance forest protection, 100 vacant positions of Forest Guards will be filled on a contractual basis.
Increased Honorarium: The honorarium for Jal Rakshaks, Multi-Purpose Workers, para fitters, and para pump operators of Jal Shakti Vibhag will be raised by Rs. 500 per month.
Ropeway for Pilgrims: An exciting development for pilgrims, as the Cabinet has given the green light to establish a passenger ropeway system from Chintpurni Baba Mai Dass Bhawan Parking to Chintpurni Temple in district Una in a public-private partnership (PPP) mode.
E-Taxis: To improve transportation services, 15 e-taxis will be hired in the Transport Department.
Amateur and Community Radios: To enhance communication during emergencies, the Cabinet will promote Amateur and Community Radios across the state.
Goods Tax Reduction: The Cabinet decided to reduce the Additional Goods Tax on lead.
Better Transport Facilities: Private operators will now have access to 234 routes, while an additional 100 routes will be available for tempo travelers.
Authority to Compound Offenses: Traffic Inspectors, Motor Vehicles Inspectors, Senior Motor Vehicle Inspectors, Assistant Sub Inspector, and Head Constable of the Police Department are now designated authorities to handle offenses under various sections of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988.
Relief for Homeless: Individuals who have been rendered homeless and have no suitable land for new houses will receive two Biswas of land in urban areas and three Biswas of land in rural areas.
Special Disaster Relief Package: The Cabinet approved a Special Relief Package for disaster-affected families. Compensation for completely damaged houses will increase significantly. Other benefits for damage to houses, shops, cowsheds, and more have also been increased.
