Shimla’s Clean Air Attracts Tourists Amid Rising Pollution in Northern India
As pollution levels rise in Haryana, Punjab, Chandigarh, Delhi, and the NCR, Shimla in Himachal Pradesh is seeing a surge in tourists. Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Shimla offers clean air and stunning views, drawing visitors seeking a respite from polluted urban areas.
Expert Insights on Air Quality
Dr. SK Atri, an environmental expert, highlights that Shimla’s Air Quality Index (AQI) is classified as ‘very good.’ The Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board monitors air quality, ensuring parameters like PM 10 and PM 2.5 remain safe. Efforts include 24-hour monitoring and new stations to assess air quality.
Tourists Share Their Experiences
Dara Singh from Haryana and Dheeraj from Chandigarh praise Shimla’s clean air and beautiful environment. They note the stark contrast with their home cities, where pollution is high. The clean air in Shimla is refreshing and offers a peaceful experience.
Economic and Health Benefits
The influx of tourists boosts the local economy, benefiting small businesses. Dr. Atri emphasizes the health benefits of Shimla’s air, inviting more visitors to experience its rejuvenating effects. As the festive season approaches, Shimla’s hospitality sector is ready to welcome more tourists.
Doubts Revealed
Shimla -: Shimla is a beautiful hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its pleasant weather, scenic views, and clean air, making it a popular tourist destination.
Pollution -: Pollution refers to harmful substances in the air, water, or soil that can cause damage to the environment and health problems for people. In many cities, pollution is a big problem due to vehicles, factories, and other sources.
Environmental expert -: An environmental expert is a person who studies and knows a lot about the environment and how to protect it. They help us understand issues like pollution and how to keep places like Shimla clean and healthy.
Air quality -: Air quality refers to how clean or polluted the air is. Good air quality means the air is clean and safe to breathe, while poor air quality means the air has harmful pollutants.
Local economy -: The local economy is the financial system of a specific area, like a town or city. When tourists visit a place like Shimla, they spend money on hotels, food, and activities, which helps the local economy grow.
Hospitality sector -: The hospitality sector includes businesses that provide services to tourists, such as hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies. They work to make sure visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.