Dharamshala MC holds first meeting, finalises 15 development projects

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Dharamshala, July 24

The newly elected Dharamshala Municipal Corporation on Friday held its first General House meeting, approving 12 to 15 development projects and identifying priority civic works across all 17 wards. The meeting was chaired by Mayor Shamsher Singh Nehria and attended by Dharamshala MLA Sudhir Sharma.

Addressing reporters after the meeting, Municipal Commissioner Zafar Iqbal said the projects focus on the city’s development, beautification and improvement of public amenities. Feedback from councilors has been incorporated, and Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) will now be prepared before seeking financial assistance from the Center and the Himachal Pradesh government.

The Commissioner said councilors were also asked to identify the top three priorities for their respective wards. Most representatives highlighted the need for improved street lighting, better drainage systems and measures to prevent rainwater from entering residential areas during the monsoon.

Highlighting the Corporation’s financial performance, Iqbal said the Municipal Corporation had increased its revenue by ₹3 crore through its own resources over the past two years. He added that around ₹3 lakh had recently been collected as user charges from residents, while penalties are imposed on those who fail to pay the charges on time.

On illegal advertisements, the Commissioner said the Municipal Corporation has issued challans worth nearly ₹6 lakh against individuals and organizations for pasting posters at unauthorized locations. He urged residents and businesses to use the Corporation’s digital advertising platform instead of putting up roadside posters.

Providing an update on property tax reforms, Iqbal said 90 percent of the survey under the Unit Area Method has been completed. The remaining 10 percent of properties will be covered by August 1, after which residents can use the Corporation’s online portal to pay user charges and complete related formalities.

The Commissioner also acknowledged a shortage of staff in the Municipal Corporation and said the matter has been repeatedly raised with the state government. He said a proposal has been submitted to assign an Executive Engineer from the Public Works Department or HIMUDA additional charge until a permanent appointment is made.

He further said the Municipal Corporation is preparing an integrated tourism development plan to improve visitor facilities, including better signage, information on parking areas and city entry points. Efforts are also underway to promote nightlife as part of Dharamshala’s tourism development strategy.