Manikaran revises user charges to strengthen waste management

In a significant move aimed at improving environmental protection and waste management in one of Himachal Pradesh’s prominent tourist destinations in Kullu district, revised “user charges” have been implemented in the Special Area Development Authority (SADA), Manikaran and its surrounding regions. The decision has been taken to ensure efficient garbage collection, sustainable waste disposal, and strengthening of local infrastructure in view of increasing tourist footfall.

The announcement was made by the Chairman of the Special Area Development Authority, Manikaran, and MLA from Kullu, Sunder Singh Thakur. He said the revised user charges have replaced the earlier rates and will now be applicable with immediate effect.

According to Thakur, the decision was unanimously approved during the general body meeting of SADA-Manikaran held recently. The primary objective of revising the charges is to mobilise adequate resources for environmental conservation, effective solid waste management and infrastructure development in Manikaran, which is known for its hot springs, religious significance and steady influx of domestic and international tourists throughout the year.

Under the revised structure, monthly user charges have been fixed category-wise. Residential houses will be charged Rs 100 per floor per month. Commercial establishments such as restaurants, dhabas, eateries, cottages, wine shops and cafés will pay Rs 1,000 per month, while shops and stalls will be charged Rs 200/month. Taxi unions operating in the area will be required to pay Rs 3,000 per month.

Accommodation facilities have also been brought under the revised framework. Guest houses, hotels and camping sites will pay Rs 2,500 per month, while homestays will be charged Rs 1,500. Hostels will also fall under the Rs 2,500 category. Public and institutional establishments including bus stands will pay Rs 3,000 per month, whereas banks will be charged Rs 1,000.

Sunder Singh Thakur emphasised that the collected user charges will be utilised strictly as per the rules and conditions already laid down in the previous order number 333-34 dated January 1, 2025. These guidelines focus on transparent utilisation of funds for sanitation services, waste transportation, disposal mechanisms and maintaining cleanliness in the region.

Manikaran, being a major tourist and pilgrimage hub in Kullu district, faces increasing pressure on its civic amenities due to rising visitor numbers. The revised user charges are expected to play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene, protecting the fragile Himalayan environment and enhancing the overall experience for tourists as well as residents.

The administration has appealed to all stakeholders to cooperate in implementing the revised charges in the larger interest of sustainable tourism and environmental preservation in Manikaran.