Mayor Steps In as Shimla Battles Garbage Crisis Amid Workers’ Strike
Amid the ongoing sanitation workers’ strike in Shimla, Mayor Surender Chauhan took an unusual and hands-on step by personally joining the effort to keep the city clean. In a rare and noteworthy move, the mayor, along with hired labourers, hit the streets to collect garbage from different parts of the town.
The strike by workers of the Shimla Health Beautification Environment and Heritage (SEHB) Society, who are responsible for daily waste collection, had disrupted cleanliness across the city. With garbage beginning to pile up in several areas, the mayor stepped in to ensure that basic services did not come to a halt.
On Saturday, Chauhan was seen actively collecting garbage from households across multiple wards, working alongside labourers. His initiative drew appreciation from local residents, many of whom praised his direct involvement and sense of responsibility during the crisis.
Sharing an update, the mayor said that nearly 90 percent of the city’s garbage was collected during the day, thanks to prompt arrangements made by the Municipal Corporation. He added that labourers were immediately deployed after the workers went on strike to prevent disruption in services.
Looking ahead, Chauhan said that from Monday onwards, efforts would be further intensified. Plans are in place to increase the number of garbage collection vehicles and deploy additional manpower to ensure that the city remains clean despite the ongoing strike.
He also announced that while Sunday would be a rest day, the cleanliness drive would continue until the situation returns to normal. “This is my responsibility as the first citizen of the city,” Chauhan said, adding that dedicated collection vehicles will be sent to all residential areas, and special collection points will be set up for locations that are difficult to access.
Addressing the concerns of the striking workers, the mayor said that their issues will be taken up seriously and discussed in an Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for June 4. He urged the workers to call off the strike and resume their duties, assuring them that their grievances would be resolved through dialogue.
The sanitation workers had gone on an indefinite strike on Friday, protesting the Municipal Corporation’s decision to scrap the annual 10 percent salary hike, which they say directly affects their livelihood.
As the city navigates this challenging situation, the mayor’s personal involvement has not only ensured temporary relief but also sent a strong message about leadership and accountability during a crisis.
