Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], February 22: The Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has greenlit the procurement of over 700 new buses, including nearly 350 electric buses, as part of efforts to modernize its fleet and improve transport services across the state. This decision was made during the 159th Board of Directors meeting of HRTC, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who also holds the transport portfolio.
Following the meeting, Agnihotri addressed the media, highlighting the need for this initiative, citing the central government’s directive to phase out buses older than 15 years.
“We are taking significant steps today to strengthen the transport network in Himachal Pradesh. The introduction of new buses will ensure better service delivery to our citizens,” Agnihotri said.
The new buses will include 297 electric buses, 250 Type-1A diesel buses, and 24 super luxury AC diesel buses. Additionally, the HRTC has initiated the re-tendering process for 100 Tempo travellers and plans to deploy four quick-response vehicles for emergency management.
Agnihotri also shared that HRTC had reported a Rs 70 crore increase in revenue, attributed to improved operational efficiency.
In response to Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur’s call for his resignation, Agnihotri criticized the BJP government’s handling of HRTC during Thakur’s tenure as Chief Minister. He pointed out that under the previous administration, only three months’ salary could be paid to HRTC employees, whereas salaries and pensions are now being disbursed on time.
Accusing the previous government of financial mismanagement, Agnihotri said, “The BJP government spent Rs 10 crore on rallies, leaving Rs 7 crore unpaid, which contributed to HRTC’s debt.”
Further, Agnihotri took a dig at the central government for neglecting Himachal Pradesh’s financial needs. “Bihar was allocated three new airports in the Union Budget, while Himachal, which lacks a major airport, was overlooked,” he said. He also noted a decline in central grants and the cessation of GST compensation, which he stated has had a negative impact on the state’s economy.
Emphasizing HRTC’s welfare-driven approach, Agnihotri explained that the corporation operates services on loss-making routes to ensure connectivity in remote areas. “Unlike private operators, we focus on serving the public, even on routes that do not generate profits,” he added.
The Deputy Chief Minister assured that transparency in HRTC’s operations would be maintained. “We are closely monitoring every route, bus, and employee performance to improve efficiency and service quality,” Agnihotri said.
With these new initiatives, the Himachal Pradesh government aims to boost transport infrastructure, provide eco-friendly services, and improve connectivity, particularly in the state’s remote regions.