International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 4 (July-August 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of August to publish your research paper in the issue of July-August.

Impact of Road Infrastructure Development on Biodiversity Conservation in the Western Himalayas: A Case Study of Shimla District

Author(s) Dr. Dhruv Sagar
Country India
Abstract Road infrastructure is indispensable for socio-economic development, particularly in mountainous regions where accessibility is often constrained by rugged terrain and climatic conditions. In the Western Himalayas, road networks have improved connectivity, facilitated tourism, enhanced disaster response, and promoted regional economic growth. However, rapid expansion of road infrastructure has also emerged as one of the major drivers of biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. Shimla District of Himachal Pradesh, characterized by rich temperate forests, high floral and faunal diversity, and ecologically sensitive mountain landscapes, has experienced substantial road expansion over the past two decades. This review-based study evaluates the ecological consequences of road infrastructure development on biodiversity conservation in Shimla District by synthesizing evidence from scientific literature, government reports, and environmental assessments. The study examines habitat fragmentation, deforestation, wildlife mortality, soil erosion, landslide susceptibility, invasive species, and human–wildlife interactions associated with road construction. It also discusses sustainable mitigation measures such as wildlife corridors, bioengineering, environmentally sensitive road design, and improved Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) practices. The findings indicate that although road infrastructure contributes significantly to regional development, inadequate ecological planning has intensified pressure on fragile Himalayan ecosystems. Integrating biodiversity conservation into infrastructure planning is therefore essential for achieving sustainable development in the Western Himalayas.
Keywords Road infrastructure; Biodiversity conservation; Habitat fragmentation; Western Himalayas; Shimla District; Sustainable development
Field Physical Science
Published In Volume 8, Issue 4, July-August 2026
Published On 2026-07-24
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i04.84214

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