Shimla Mayor seeks Central support to boost tourism infra

In a move aimed at bolstering Shimla’s cultural legacy and tourism infrastructure, Mayor Surinder Chauhan has appealed for substantial financial support from the Central government. The request was raised during his recent meeting with Dr Mahesh Sharma, Chairman of the Lok Sabha Housing Committee and Member of Parliament from Gautam Budh Nagar.

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Mayor Chauhan urged the Centre to provide targeted financial assistance to help the Shimla MC develop and sustain vital cultural and tourism initiatives. Dr Sharma responded positively, assuring the Mayor that the demands would be seriously considered and that efforts would be made to support Shimla’s aspirations.

Following the meeting, the Mayor formally submitted a letter to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation outlining a detailed roadmap and funding requirements. Among the key proposals, the MC has sought an annual grant of Rs 2 crore to expand major cultural events like the Shimla Winter Carnival and Summer Festival, as well as to organise regular Cultural Haats to celebrate Himachali folk art, crafts and cuisine.

A separate grant of Rs 5 crore has been requested for the restoration and enhancement of iconic municipal heritage structures such as the Town Hall, Gaiety Theatre, historic fountains and old British-era pedestrian routes that define Shimla’s charm. The Mayor emphasised that these efforts are essential for preserving the town’s identity while improving visitor experience.

To enhance tourist amenities and accessibility, the MC has also proposed a series of forward-looking interventions. These include smart, multilingual signage for popular trails, eco-friendly public toilets, hydration stations in high-footfall zones and escalator-based access to landmarks like Jakhu Temple. In addition, the plan envisions the introduction of hop-on-hop-off e-buses to ease traffic congestion in the city core and the development of a comprehensive Shimla Tourism Mobile App offering real-time updates, guided tours, and integrated booking options.

Support has also been sought for strengthening the role of local artisans and self help groups (SHGs) in cultural activities, with a Rs 1 crore annual grant proposed to enhance their participation and visibility. Another Rs 1 crore grant has been requested to implement RFID-based waste tracking systems and sanitation solutions during peak tourist seasons and large cultural events.

Mayor Chauhan underscored that while Shimla is among the country’s most beloved hill stations — famed for its colonial architecture, Himachali heritage and natural beauty — its fragile ecosystem and infrastructure constraints demand sustained central support.