Environment
HP Govt Cabinet decisions: Separate ring-fenced Water Supply and Sewerage Circle for Shimla
Decides to create Greater Shimla Water Supply & Sewerage Circle,Nod to Government Degree Colleges at Majheen in Kangra District & Govt. College at Kotli in Mandi,About 580 posts to be filled
SHIMLA- The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet in its meeting held on June 22 decided to create a separate ring-fenced Water Supply and Sewerage Circle to be headed by Superintending Engineer (IPH), with a separate name ‘Greater Shimla Water Supply and Sewerage Circle’ (GWS & SC), having separate account, under the Municipal Corporation, Shimla for delivery of all integrated services related to supply of water and sewerage disposal.
A Technical Monitoring Group (TMG) will be headed by the Chief Secretary, as its Chairman besides Secretary IPH as Member Secretary with other 10 members.
The meeting was presided over by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh.
The Greater Shimla Water Supply and Sewerage System will be amalgamation of the existing structure available with Municipal Corporation Shimla and the IPH Water Supply & Sewerage Circle Shimla. The SE (IPH) of GWS & SC will be on secondment basis along-with his required staff to the MC.
The Circle will have two divisions viz: Water Production and Sewerage Treatment and Water Distribution and Sewerage Network.
The Health Officer of the corporation would be in-charge of the water quality monitoring and surveillance and would control the water testing labs being transferred by IPH to MC Shimla.
A MoU would be signed between State Government and MC Shimla. The World Bank Identification Mission during its recent visit of Shimla in June, 2016
had also agreed that the IPH Department will hire services of a sector specialist to draft the MoU /service agreement between the MC and the IPH for ring-fenced WSS services to be established at the MC Shimla.
The Cabinet approved enhancement of the rates of honorarium to the office bearers and staff of Panchayati Raj Institutions as per budget announcement for the year 2016-17. The Members of Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samitis will be paid honorarium at enhanced rate of Rs. 3500 and Rs. 3000 per month respectively.
The Cabinet approved to convert more than 663 Takniki Sahayaks who have put in ten years of regular service, as daily wagers. It was also decided to re-name the Panchayat Sahayaks who have completed six years of contractual services as to Panchayat Secretaries (on contract). It decided to regularize in Zila Parishad cadre, the services of as many as 165 contractual Panchayat Secretaries, who have completed five years regular services on 31-03-2016.
The Cabinet approved to set up Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for implementation of Smart City Mission at Dharamshala. The main reason for the creation of SPV for the Smart City Mission is to ensure operational independence and autonomy in decision making and mission implementation.
The SPV will approve and sanction the projects and will execute the Smart City proposals and mobilize the sources. It will have a Governing Body for taking all major policy decisions with Divisional Commissioner, Kangra as its Chairman or any other person authorized by the State Government including one nominee from Government of India besides Mayor and Deputy Mayor and others.
The SPV at the city-level will be a limited company incorporated under the Companies. Act, 2013 at the City level, in which the State and the ULB will be the promoters having 50:50 equity share-holding.
HEALTH SECTOR
The Cabinet decided to take over ESIC Medical College and Hospital Ner Chowk in district Mandi by accepting the terms and conditions of the agreement. The Government will reimburse the interest free balance liability of Rs. 285.83 crore in five installments.
The Cabinet accorded approval for opening Health Sub Centre (HSC) at Yangpa-II in district Kinnaur.
It also approved to open Primary Health Centre at Chhitkul and Nigulsari in Kinnaur district.
Approval was accorded to open Health Sub Centers at Village Deothi Majhgaon and Village Taali Bhujjal in Sirmour district and also opening of HSC at Chnaal Mazra in Solan district.
EDUCATION SECTOR
The Cabinet decided to open new Government Degree College at Majheen in Kangra district along-with creating and filling up of as many as 18 posts of different categories on contract basis. It also approved Govt. College at Kotli in Mandi.
It decided to open new Block Primary Education Office at Ransar (Jangla) in Shimla district and approval was given to open new Primary School at village Ropa in Banjar and at Phalyani in Kullu.
In view to strengthen the Directorate of Technical Education, the Cabinet gave its node to re-designated existing one post of Head of Department (CCDC) as Deputy Director (TE), One post of Deputy Director (TE) to be created and four posts of Junior Office Assistant (IT) to be created/filled up on contract basis.
The Decision was taken to establish Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology at Balla Kharot (Parour) in Kangra district.
POSTS CREATED/FILLED
The Cabinet gave its approval to fill up 244 posts of Assistant Professors (College Cadre) on contract basis, and also for creation of posts of Music Teachers in all colleges of the State.
It approved to fill up 159 posts of Supervisors in Social Justice and Empowerment Department on contract basis.
Approval was give to fill up 24 posts of Clerk in Transport Department on contract basis.
The decision was also taken to keep 18 Data Entry Operators on outsource basis in Transport Department.
It approved for creation and filling up twenty posts of Junior Office Assistant (IT) in CSK HP Agriculture University Palampur on contract basis. and to create 17 posts of various categories in HP Vidhan Sabha.
It approved to create ten posts of Law Officers (English) in HP Secretariat, to filling eight vacant posts of Junior Scale Stenographers on secondment basis from amongst eligible Steno Typist of various Departments.
It approved to create and fill up 12 posts of District Coordinators and 12 posts of Junior Office Assistant (IT) on outsources basis in Social Justice and Empowerment Department. It also approved to fill up ten posts of Mali/Beldar on daily wage basis in Sericulture wing of the Industries Department.
The Cabinet approved to fill up six posts of different category in fisheries department and six posts of different categories reserved for the Ex-servicemen and one post of Dark Room Attendant in Printing and Stationary Department on contract basis. The Cabinet approved filling up of six vacant posts of Drivers on Daily Wage basis in State Vigilance & Anti Corruption Bureau.
The Cabinet gave its nod to fill four posts of Tehsil Welfare Officers on contract basis through Direct Recruitment on contract basis in Social Justice and Empowerment Department.
The approval was gven to fill up four posts of Junior Office Assistant (IT) in HIPA, four posts of Junior Office Assistant (IT) and One post of Driver in Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission.
The Cabinet approved to create and fill two posts of Junior Office Assistant (IT) in Local Account and Audit Department. Approval was accorded to create and fill up one post of Assistant Programmer (IT) in Treasuries, Accounts and Lottery, two posts of Junior Office Assistant (IT) on contract basis and nine posts of Part-time Sweeper in Social Justice and Empowerment Department.
The approval was accorded to create one post of DIG in the Department of Prisons & Correctional Services, to fill one post of Assistant Director (Chemistry/Toxicology Division) in Regional Forensic Science Laboratory, Dharamshala and to fill one vacant post of Craft Teacher in Institute for Children with Special Abilities, Sundernagar, one post of Junior Office Assistant (IT) in HP State Women Commission.
It approved creation of one post of Driver in the office of Advocate General and to fill one post of Junior Scale Stenographer in the office of District Attorney Kinnaur at Rampur.
OTHER DECISIONS
The Cabinet gave its nod to provide Rs. 10,000 as ex-gratia (in lieu of bonus) to the officers/officials of H.P. State Civil Supplies Corporation not covered under the payment of bonus Act for the 2014-15.
It approved transfer of land in favour of Intelligence Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs, GoI for construction of office-cum-residence building at Up-Mohal Baag in Una district.
It approved the change the name of Govt. Polytechnic Banikhet to Rajiv Gandhi Government Polytechnic Banikhet at Kanda in Chamba district.
It decided to open Sub-Tehsil at Saach (Pangi) and to upgrade Sihunta Sub- Tehsil to Tehsil in Chamba district.
It approved the proposal regarding sanitation/cleaning services on outsource basis in Rajiv Gandhi Government Engineering College, Kangra at Nagrota-Bagwan. Besides, it also approved for services of two mates on outsources basis.
The Approval was given to enhance share capital from Rs. 10 crore to 13 crore and Block Government Guarantee from Rs. 15 crore to Rs. 20 crore in favour of H.P. Minorities Finance and Development Corporation Shimla
It decided to revise Monetary Benefits to Gallantry Award Winners.
The decision was taken to cancel Small Hydro Power Projects on Tirthan River, its tributaries and sub-tributaries.
It approved to open Sub-Jail at Nalagarh (Deronwal) in Solan district and Sub-Tehsil at Bihru Kalan at Mandli in Una district.
Decision was taken to open regular Veterinary dispensary at Nurpur along-with the requisite posts on contract basis as Sub divisional Veterinary Hospital was shifted to Matholi. It also decided to open regular Veterinary dispensary in Village Niyal and village Sikhnara in Kangra alongwith staff.
It also approved to upgrade Veterinary Dispensary Suhani, Balugaloa, Rajhiyana in Kangra disitrict and Taryambli in Darang Mandi district to Veterinary Hospital. It decided to open new Veterinary Dispensary at Village Ogli and Shanot and to upgrade three such dispensary at Khalag, Dargi and Madawag to Veterinary Hospitals in Shimla district.
ACTS & RULES
It gave its approval to amendment in Himachal Pradesh River Rafting Rules, 2005.
It approved amendment in Appendix-III under Rule 10(1) and Clause © of Appendix-V under Rules 10(3) of H.P. Administrative Service Rules, 1973.
Approval was given to make amendments in Skill Up gradation with Job/Outsourcing Guarantee (SUJOG) Scheme.
The Cabinet approved proposed amendment in the Rule of Mukhya Mantri Kanya Daan Yojna 2006” wherein the marriage grant to the guardians of destitute women/girls is enhanced from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 40,000. In case of inmates of Nari Seva Sadan, the marriage grant is enhanced from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 51,000.
Approval was accorded to framing the H.P. Anand Marriage Registration Rules, 2016 amendments in the Interim Development Plan (IDP) for Shimla Planning Area.
It approved Himachal Pradesh District Mineral Foundation Trust Rules, 2016 and amendment in HP Factories (Amendment) Rules, 2004.
Environment
Shimla: Retaining Wall Collapses During Four-Lane Construction, Residents Flee Homes to Save Lives
SHIMLA | 3 July 2025 –A major mishap occurred in the Lindi Dhar village of Shimla district during the ongoing four-lane highway construction, raising fresh concerns over safety and construction quality. A retaining wall, constructed as part of the project, collapsed once again—posing a serious threat to nearby homes and destroying hundreds of apple trees.
According to local residents, this is not the first time the wall has caved in. Despite previous incidents, authorities failed to take adequate corrective measures. The latest collapse forced several families to abandon their homes for safety, fearing further landslides and structural damage.
Villagers have accused the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and its contractors of negligence. They allege that no proper safety precautions were taken in the construction process, even though the area is known to be vulnerable to landslides.
“This wall had collapsed earlier too, but no permanent solution was provided. Now, we are facing the same threat again. Our lives and properties are at constant risk,” said a local resident.
The landslide also damaged a large number of apple orchards—adding to the losses of local farmers who depend on horticulture for their livelihood.
Residents have demanded immediate intervention from the administration and strict action against those responsible for the substandard construction. They have also urged NHAI to put in place robust safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Local officials have visited the site, and further assessment is awaited.
Environment
Police Complaint Alleges Criminal Negligence in Four-Lane Highway Project Between Parwanoo and Solan
Solan | 30 June 2025 – A police complaint has been filed at the Parwanoo Police Station in Solan district, alleging criminal negligence and environmental damage in the construction of the four-lane highway between Parwanoo and Solan. The complaint, submitted by former Deputy Mayor of Shimla Tikender Singh Panwar, accuses the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and its executing contractor, G R Infraprojects Limited, of serious lapses that have endangered lives, property, and the natural ecosystem.
According to the complaint, NHAI officials based at the Chakkar office in Shimla, along with planning teams at Rishikesh Sadan, Shanti Kutia, and the executing agency G R Infra, with its corporate office in Sector 18, Gurugram, failed in their duty to ensure minimal damage to the hilly terrain. It is alleged that the project was undertaken without proper consultation with the Geological Department, resulting in a project report that is “completely erroneous.”
Panwar contends that the design and method of slope cutting are fundamentally flawed, driven by ill-conceived ideas and profit motives.
“Instead of cutting the hills at a slope, the excavation has been done vertically,” the complaint states, warning that this approach poses a permanent threat to residents living near the construction site.
The complaint further highlights that since the beginning of the construction, there have been recurring losses of life and property, which the complainant attributes directly to unsafe and irresponsible construction practices.
Significantly, the complaint raises concerns about possible collusion between NHAI and GR Infra, and urges law enforcement to determine whether the negligence was circumstantial or the result of deliberate wrongdoing.
Panwar has demanded that both NHAI and G R Infraprojects Limited be held criminally liable and subjected to legal proceedings under relevant provisions.
As of now, neither NHAI nor G R Infra has issued an official response.
Environment
Himachal Bans Small PET Bottle, Rs 5,000 Fine on Littering of Single-Use Plastics, Compostable Bags
Shimla, May 27, 2025 – Small PET bottles (up to 500 ml) are littering Himachal Pradesh’s hills, forests, and water bodies, threatening its fragile ecosystem.
Ban on Small PET Bottles
Under the HP Non-Biodegradable Garbage (Control) Act, 1995, the state has banned these bottles in all government-organized indoor meetings, conferences, and events, effective June 1, 2025.
Impact on Hotels
The ban extends to HPTDC and private hotels, which must switch to glass bottles or steel water dispensers. A grace period allows clearing existing stocks to avoid financial losses.
Fines for Littering
A Rs 5,000 fine targets littering of single-use plastics, including compostable bags, by individuals, hotels, restaurants, and other institutions.
Mandatory Car Bins
From April 29, 2025, all taxis and public transport vehicles, including HRTC buses, must install ‘car bins’ for waste collection.
Enforcement Measures
Regional Transport Officers and Motor Vehicle Inspectors will verify bins during vehicle registration. Non-compliance incurs a Rs 10,000 fine, with Rs 1,500 for littering biodegradable waste.
Awareness Campaigns
Government bodies will conduct awareness campaigns to discourage small PET bottle use and promote sustainable practices.
Challenges
Himachal’s ban on small PET bottles and vehicle littering targets plastic pollution but faces challenges. Past bans faltered due to weak enforcement, especially in rural and tourist areas.
Small businesses may struggle with costly alternatives like glass or steel containers. Tourists, a major litter source, need better awareness. The car bin mandate requires rigorous monitoring to ensure compliance. Without robust recycling systems and public cooperation, the ban risks limited impact. Subsidizing eco-friendly options and strengthening enforcement are critical to protect Himachal’s ecosystem effectively.
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