State begins process to form municipal council for Bir-Billing

The state government has initiated the process of forming a Municipal Council for Bir-Billing, one of the world’s premier paragliding sites and a rapidly developing tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. On Saturday, Baijnath SDM DC Thakur held a consultation meeting with panchayat representatives, hotel owners and other stakeholders to seek their views on the proposal. Most attendees welcomed the move, expressing strong support for the establishment of a civic body to manage the region’s growing needs.

If approved by the state government, the proposed Municipal Council will replace the existing Special Area Development Authority (SADA), which currently oversees the region.

During a recent visit by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, residents from four local panchayats—Bir, Chogan, Keyori and Gunehar—submitted a memorandum requesting the formation of a Municipal Council. They urged the Chief Minister to scrap SADA, citing its inability to address core civic issues in the area.

Locals have accused SADA of financial mismanagement, claiming that only 10% of allocated development funds are spent in Bir-Billing, with the remainder being diverted to the state exchequer. They highlighted ongoing issues such as poor garbage disposal, inadequate drinking water, and failing drainage systems, all of which have worsened under SADA’s administration.

Residents also expressed frustration over bureaucratic hurdles, claiming that even minor constructions like cow sheds require SADA’s approval. For over 15 years, the authority has reportedly failed to fulfill its promises, leaving the community disillusioned.

Himachal Tribune