Palampur - The Town That Was...

Palampur - The Town That Was...

*Sudhirendar Sharma

The transformation of hilly towns across the Himalayas, especially in Himachal Pradesh, is a compelling narrative of change and adaptation. Once characterized by pristine natural beauty and self-sustaining communities, these towns have witnessed rapid urbanization, environmental degradation, and shifting lifestyles in last few decades. The evolution of Palampur serves as a poignant example, showcasing how the delicate balance of nature and tradition is being replaced by concrete structures and modern conveniences. This article delves into Palampur's journey, reflecting broader trends across the region, and underscores the urgent need for sustainable development to preserve the unique charm and ecological balance of these Himalayan towns.

Palampur was not a big town, but rather a small one that has been significant enough to remain in memories. It is worth revisiting those vivid, hazy images that reflect the past in detail. Springs emerged at many places that evoked life; streams encircled the town like arteries; bridle pathways connected clusters of houses; small paddy fields dotted the landscape; and sprawling tea gardens adorned the slopes. There was an unwritten harmony in the system.

In the coming years, Palampur underwent unimaginable transformation. Five decades have radically altered the town. Many springs have dried up and disappeared; bridle pathways have been replaced by concrete passages; waste-laden streams struggle to flow; and tea gardens have become sparse. The small town has expanded its boundaries and grown as much as it could. There is nothing noteworthy to write about its expansion from a small town to a big one.

Palampur, located in Himachal Pradesh and situated about 4,000 feet above sea level, overlooks the mighty Dhauladhar mountains, which aren't snow-clad year-round. Fans and air-conditioners, once unseen, are now common. With many concrete structures and an expanded road network filled with fuel-guzzling automobiles, this change is neither dramatic nor unexpected.

Local food security is no one's concern as little grows here, or rather, is allowed to grow. Packaged food in colourful plastic bags is everyone's favorite. With the net sown area in the state shrinking from 19.07 percent to 11.81 percent over the last ten years, such a shift, against the backdrop of erstwhile small paddy fields, was expected. Weekend tourists bring their consumptive needs and leave waste for the locals.

The decline in the net sown area is glaring; land once used for farming has been repurposed for non-farm use. In the last decade, non-farm use of agricultural land in the state has increased from a low of 3.55 percent to as high as 16.44 percent. Developmentalists see it differently, viewing it as presenting new challenges and opportunities. Statistics can be misleading, often hiding more than they reveal.

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*Sudhirendar Sharma is an independent writer, researcher and academic. He is Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences.