Shimla MC Unveils ₹188.35 Crore Budget, Prioritizing Infrastructure and Sustainability
Shimla Municipal Corporation (MC) Mayor Surinder Chauhan has presented a ₹188.35 crore budget for the financial year 2025-26, with a strong emphasis on urban development, sustainability, and efficient governance. Additionally, a significant ₹500 crore has been earmarked under the Smart City initiative, primarily for the construction of commercial complexes and municipal offices.
A major chunk of the expenditure—approximately 70% (₹70.51 crore)—is dedicated to salaries and pensions, ensuring financial stability for municipal employees.
On the revenue front, the municipal corporation expects to generate ₹21 crore through municipal taxes, particularly with the introduction of property tax reforms linked to GIS mapping. Other key revenue sources include ₹35.80 crore from state and central grants, ₹14.14 crore from rental income, and ₹8.81 crore from user charges such as waste management and parking fees.
The budget places a strong focus on infrastructure development, with ₹90.24 crore allocated for capital projects. Notable initiatives include a ₹60 crore Waste to Wonder Park, ₹15 crore for solar-powered street lighting, and ₹92.79 crore for the development of multi-level parking facilities at Vikas Nagar and IGMC Auditorium. Furthermore, a ₹500 crore Smart City multiplex is set to be developed from Cart Road to Lakkar Bazar, enhancing commercial and public spaces.
In a bid to promote sustainability, the corporation has outlined several eco-friendly initiatives. These include planting 5,000 saplings, introducing electric vehicles for municipal operations, and setting up biomethanation plants to convert organic waste into energy.
Citizen welfare also remains a key focus, with ₹1.8 crore allocated for Pink Toilets, ensuring better sanitation facilities for women, and ₹15 crore designated for creating organized vending zones for street vendors.
