The mud kitchen in Kangra breathes with the seasons

In Kangra village, traditional mud homes provide a contrast to concrete buildings that trap summer heat and become damp in winter. The region has seen a surge in hotels and homestays while traditional homes are under threat. The Supreme Court warned that concrete structures should not take priority over ecology. The Central Empowered Committee's report highlights the rapid growth of hotels and homestays.

The region's ancestors developed earthquake-resistant methods like kath-kuni and dhajji-dewari. However, modern construction practices are causing environmental damage. Traditional building techniques are being abandoned due to the lack of skilled workers and support from government policies. Himachal Pradesh needs to update its building codes and recognize natural building methods as viable.