Himachal Pradesh high court has ordered an immediate halt to construction of two multi-storey buildings between Boileauganj and Chakkar in Shimla, expressing concern over alleged unauthorised construction, extensive tree felling and suspected collusion among officials of the municipal corporation (MC), forest and police departments.
The bench was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) registered on the basis of a representation received regarding construction being raised between Boileauganj and Chakkar, to the extent of over five to six floors in two big buildings. The court expressed concern that the alleged violations had taken place despite the presence of the forest department, MC and police department. The report characterised the circumstances as indicative of serious lapses and possible collusion among the departments concerned.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on November 4, 2026.
The court had directed the secretary, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), to inspect the site along with the officials of the forest department and the Shimla MC commissioner, and submit a report as to whether the construction was duly sanctioned, the nature of the land and whether the authorities had permitted the construction of the said road.
The court questioned the police for leaving the names of suspects blank in an FIR despite an earlier order identifying persons allegedly involved in the construction, observing that the omission appeared to be a deliberate attempt to shield those responsible.
The SHO, who was present in court, undertook to include the names of the accused persons in the FIR, complete the investigation at the earliest and submit a status report detailing the action taken by the next hearing. The court directed that a copy of its order be served on the occupants of the site by the SHO to ensure compliance with the stop-construction directions.
