Preneeta Sharma
Shimla
The Municipal Corporation Shimla’s decision to install replicas of the Seven Wonders using waste material has drawn sharp criticism from residents, who say the project fails to reflect Himachal Pradesh’s unique cultural identity and does little to strengthen Shimla’s appeal as a world-class hill destination.
Shimla has never needed to imitate other places to attract tourists. Its colonial heritage, breathtaking landscapes, traditional Himachali architecture, temples, fairs, handicrafts and rich mountain culture are what make the city special. Instead of celebrating these strengths, they say the civic body has chosen to replicate monuments that already have their own global identity.
Residents question how replicas of the Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower or other international landmarks will persuade tourists to visit Shimla. “People travel to Agra for the Taj Mahal, not Shimla. Visitors come here to experience Himachal, not miniature copies of monuments they have already seen elsewhere,” said Tarun Sharma lawyer and local resident.
The project has also reignited concerns over the Municipal Corporation’s planning priorities. Citizens argue that funds should have been invested in preserving heritage, improving sanitation, restoring public spaces, managing traffic, creating parking facilities and promoting authentic Himachali art rather than constructing symbolic attractions with limited long-term tourism value.
Several residents believe the opportunity to showcase Himachal’s identity has been lost. They say installations based on Kullu Dussehra, Kinnauri and Lahauli culture, traditional Kath-Kuni architecture, local deities, folk music, apple orchards and Himalayan biodiversity would have offered visitors an experience found nowhere else in the world.
Locals warn that if tourism development focuses on copying attractions instead of showcasing local heritage, Shimla risks diluting the very identity that has made it one of India’s most iconic hill stations.
The Municipal Corporation has not yet responded to the criticism or explained how the project is expected to generate sustained tourism or economic benefits.This version is strongly critical while avoiding unverified allegations and making clear that the views are those of critics rather than established fact.
