Shimla’s ₹688-Crore Civic Plan: No New Taxes, But Higher Service Fees
Shimla’s Municipal Corporation unveiled a massive ₹688 crore budget for 2026–27, sparking heated debate in the House and protests from the opposition. While residents won’t face new taxes, they will see higher user charges—most notably garbage collection fees—raising concerns about affordability and service quality.
What’s Changing for Citizens
- No new taxes but higher charges for services like waste management.
- Officials argue this will improve sanitation and sustainability.
- Opposition warns it could burden households without visible service upgrades.
Big Ticket Housing Push
- ₹200 crore loan earmarked for new flats to ease urban pressure.
- Funds expected from central schemes and the Asian Development Bank.
Infrastructure Boost
- ₹55.15 crore for roads, parks, parking lots, rain shelters, and community halls.
- ₹42.30 crore for ward-level projects including ambulance roads, playgrounds, and parking for 450 vehicles.
- ₹5.35 crore for repairs and maintenance, plus a memorial for Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
Tackling Drainage & Waste
- ₹90 crore set aside for drainage improvements after repeated monsoon damage.
- ₹2 crore allocated to upgrade four dumping sites.
The Debate
Opposition councillors questioned the “zero-deficit” claim, pointing to heavy reliance on loans and external funding. For residents, the real test will be whether higher fees translate into cleaner streets, smoother traffic, and better amenities.
