Relief for Residents: Shimla Municipal Corporation Softens Garbage Fee Hike
From 10 per cent to 5 per cent
In a welcome move aimed at easing the financial pressure on residents, the Shimla Municipal Corporation (SMC) has decided to cut the annual increase in garbage collection charges from 10 per cent to five per cent, starting from the next financial year.
The decision was taken during the monthly general house meeting of the civic body, chaired by SMC Mayor Surinder Chauhan on Wednesday.
During the meeting, Congress councillor from Nabha ward, Simi Nanda, raised concerns over the steep annual hike in garbage collection bills. She presented a proposal seeking a reduction in the increase, arguing that a 10 per cent rise every year puts an undue burden on citizens. She urged the Corporation to bring the hike down to three per cent to provide meaningful relief to the public.
While acknowledging the concern, Mayor Chauhan clarified that reducing the rates for the current year was not feasible, as the bills had already been issued. However, he assured councillors and residents that the revision would take effect from the next financial year, ensuring that people are not subjected to additional financial stress going forward.
The Mayor explained that the decision to impose a 10 per cent annual hike was originally taken in 2018, due to financial losses being faced by the Shimla Environment, Heritage Conservation and Beautification (SEHB) Society. At that time, the Society’s expenditures exceeded its income, prompting the Corporation to introduce the yearly increase as a corrective measure.
In another resident-friendly decision, the Corporation also agreed to grant parking spaces already allotted to local residents on a long-term basis of five years, instead of the current system of annual renewals. This move has been welcomed as it will spare residents the hassle of repeatedly visiting municipal offices each year for renewals.
Officials noted that the change was made in response to frequent complaints from residents about the inconvenience caused by the yearly renewal process, marking another step toward simplifying civic services in the city.
