CM Sukhu has directed the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) to explore the feasibility of introducing green hydrogen-powered buses, aligning with the state’s vision to become a Green Energy State by March 2026.
Chairing a high-level review meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized that HRTC is the lifeline of public transport in the hilly terrain of Himachal Pradesh and assured full government support to strengthen and modernize the corporation’s services.
Key Highlights:
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297 Type-I electric buses will be operational by March 2026
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Procurement underway for 30 Type-II e-buses
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Feasibility study initiated for green hydrogen buses
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Real-time bus tracking, e-office system, and digital bus pass system to be implemented
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New HRTC workshop to be set up at Theog, Shimla
The Chief Minister also instructed the department to adopt digital technologies for improved efficiency, including a real-time bus monitoring system, a digital concessional bus pass portal, and e-office integration at HRTC headquarters.
He further added that the government is committed to making HRTC a financially viable and service-oriented organization, especially considering the state’s challenging topography and the transport needs of rural populations.
Leadership Input
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri praised the dedication of HRTC employees and provided key suggestions during the meeting.
Also present were Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, Advisor Infra Anil Kapil, Additional Chief Secretary R.D. Nazeem, Principal Secretary Devesh Kumar, Secretary to CM Rakesh Kanwar, OSD Gopal Sharma, and Managing Director HRTC Dr. Nipun Jindal, among other senior officials.
