Bir-Billing awaits formation of MC, civic crisis deepens

There has been no significant progress in the formation of a municipal council at Bir-Billing, one of Himachal Pradesh’s major tourist destinations and a world-renowned paragliding site.

Despite a steady rise in population and a sharp increase in tourist inflow over the years, the absence of a structured civic body continues to hinder planned development and effective delivery of essential services. Most areas of Bir-Billing have reportedly turned into slums in the absence of any check from the authorities.

A globally recognised destination for paragliding and adventure tourism, Bir-Billing is facing serious civic and environmental challenges. In the absence of a municipal council, there is no dedicated mechanism to regulate construction activity, manage solid waste scientifically, maintain drainage system or ensure basic sanitation standards.

The situation has reportedly worsened due to the rapid mushrooming of hotels, homestays, cafés and commercial establishments, which has also increased garbage generation. With no permanent waste treatment facility in place, heaps of plastic waste, bottles and other non-biodegradable material can be seen dumped on roadsides, into drains and even in nearby forest areas, raising serious environmental concerns.

The Special Area Development Authority (SADA), constituted to oversee development in the region, has come under criticism from residents and stakeholders for failing to address the mounting waste management crisis. Although green tax is collected from tourists and fees is taken from paragliding pilots, locals allege that little visible improvement has been made in civic infrastructure.

Environmentalists warn that unchecked construction, poor waste disposal practices and the lack of regulatory oversight could irreparably damage the fragile ecosystem of the valley. They caution that continued neglect may ultimately affect Bir-Billing’s reputation as an international paragliding destination.

Significantly, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had directed the state government in 2018 to establish a garbage treatment plant in the area. However, years later, the directive remains unimplemented, further compounding the crisis.

Baijnath SDM, who is also chairman of the SADA, says the state government has already cleared the formation of municipal council three months ago, however, a final notification is pending. He hoped that government will take final decision before March 31.

The residents and tourism stakeholders have urged the state government to expedite the constitution of municipal council to ensure proper civic administration, scientific waste management and sustainable development. They maintain that timely intervention is crucial not only for protecting the environment but also preserving Bir-Billing’s status as a flagship tourism hub of Himachal Pradesh.