Himachal aims for green public transport, unveils plan for fully electric fleet by 2025

Himachal Pradesh is all set to shift toward green public transport. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu recently announced an ambitious plan to transition the state-run Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) to a fully electric fleet by March 2025.

This was announced at the HRTC’s golden jubilee festivities, which were attended by important dignitaries including Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri. Sukhu acknowledged the HRTC’s enormous contribution to the state’s growth and added how it has contributed to become a reliable and comfortable means of transportation over Himachal’s winding roads.

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The Chief Minister acknowledged the efforts and commitment of HRTC staff members, attributing the company’s fifty years of success to their hard work and dedication. During the ceremony, a number of significant announcements were made, one of which being the prompt payment of salary and pensions to HRTC staff and retirees on October 28. Additionally, the government will allocate INR 50 crore to cover 55 months of overdue overtime payments, with the aim of settling these by March 31, 2025. Pending medical bills, totaling INR 9 crore, will also be cleared within two months, reflecting the government’s focus on employee welfare.

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The Chief Minister explained the need to use electric vehicles in place of HRTC’s fossil fuel-powered buses, which will help in improving the corporation’s financial health, and will also help to reduce environmental impact. He asked the HRTC to plan for the next 50 years, while sharing his personal memories with regard to the corporation’s achievements.

Significant strides have already been made under the current government. Around 7,300 HRTC employees have benefited from the old pension scheme (OPS), 1,546 contract employees have been regularised, and 608 new jobs have been created, with 550 more positions soon to be filled. Additionally, 421 employees have received promotions, signalling the government’s commitment to staff development.

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During the occasion, a coffee table book honouring HRTC’s past was also released, and exceptional staff members received recognition for their contributions. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri praised the professionalism and commitment of HRTC staff members, who carry out their work in spite of difficult circumstances, enhancing the company’s standing as a comfortable and dependable employer. With an investment of INR 327 crore, the deployment of electric buses is expected to modernise the fleet and increase public confidence in HRTC services.