Himachal Pradesh HC Flags Illegal Multi Storey Construction in Solan Hills
SHIMLA, August 29, 2026: The Himachal Pradesh High Court has raised serious concerns over unauthorised multi-storey construction in the Barog Hills and other parts of Solan district, citing potential damage to the state's fragile ecology.
A division bench of Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Bipin Chander Negi sought detailed information from the Himachal Pradesh government after examining a status report submitted by the Town and Country Planning Department.
Buildings Exceeding Permitted Height
The court took particular note of construction in Barog Hills and Kheel Jhalsi. Photographs submitted before the court allegedly showed extensive construction between 2015 and 2026, alongside a decline in green cover.
Some buildings were reportedly nine storeys high, despite court directions limiting construction in these areas to six floors.
Court Questions Land Conversion
The government has been asked to explain how agricultural and forest land was allegedly levelled for multi-storey projects.
The court also noted allegations that some projects were financed by builders from outside Himachal Pradesh and that flats were being sold through agreements to people who were not original residents of the state.
The government must clarify whether such transactions comply with the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act, particularly provisions governing the purchase and conversion of agricultural land.
Action Against Illegal Construction
The High Court has sought details of stop-construction orders issued after its earlier interim directions to assess whether its orders are being followed.
The bench also noted that the Supreme Court is monitoring ecological and environmental issues, including illegal construction, in Himachal Pradesh.
Development Plans Still Underway
The state informed the court that development plans for Solan, Mandi, Una, Palampur, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Chamba and Nahan are being prepared under AMRUT 2.0, with completion expected before March 2027.
The court also sought clarity on the pending Hill Conservation, Preservation, Cutting and Modification Policy and the status of regional planning in several districts.
Next Hearing on September 15
The High Court has directed the concerned Town and Country Planning Department officials to remain present at the next hearing, scheduled for September 15, 2026.
Why This Matters for Property Buyers
The case highlights the risks of buying flats or plots in hill areas without checking land-use permissions, building approvals, floor limits and ownership documentation. Any construction found to violate planning or environmental regulations could face regulatory or legal action.