In a major step towards improving public transport in Himachal Pradesh, the State Government has announced a comprehensive plan to modernize and expand the fleet of Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC). As part of this initiative, 1,000 new buses will be inducted into the HRTC fleet in a phased manner—marking a significant milestone in the state’s transport history.
Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri stated that 24 new Volvo buses have already been added to the fleet. Further, procurement is actively underway for 327 electric buses (including 297 Type-1 and 30 Type-3 models), along with 250 diesel buses and 100 mini-buses. Supply orders for the electric buses have already been issued. In addition, the government is planning to procure 500 more electric buses to support its green mobility mission.
Recognizing the unique topography of Himachal Pradesh, the government is focusing on acquiring buses that are better suited to hill terrains. Buses with smaller seating capacities (37 to 42 seats) are being prioritized to ensure improved accessibility in remote and hard-to-reach areas.
At present, HRTC operates a fleet of nearly 3,200 buses. Agnihotri emphasized that this large-scale fleet upgrade—replacing 1,000 buses—is unprecedented in the state’s history, and showcases the current government’s commitment to strengthening transport services. He said that this initiative would not only improve the Corporation’s operational efficiency but also offer safer, more comfortable and reliable travel for passengers across Himachal Pradesh.
Highlighting HRTC’s role in the daily lives of citizens, the Deputy CM remarked, “In a hill state like ours, roads are the lifelines—and HRTC is the bridge that connects them. Every day, lakhs of passengers depend on its services, including those living in the most remote regions.”
He also noted that HRTC continues to run loss-making routes to uphold its public service mandate, and the government remains fully committed to supporting the Corporation in becoming a more efficient, financially independent, and sustainable transport entity.
In alignment with the state’s environmental goals, Agnihotri shared that around ₹110 crore has been sanctioned for setting up electric charging stations across Himachal. While electric buses are being procured directly by the government, HRTC is self-financing the purchase of diesel buses.
The plan also includes the induction of 100 mini-buses to ensure last-mile connectivity in rural and hilly terrain. These buses are expected to significantly boost transportation access in underserved areas and serve as a model for other states aiming to improve their rural transport infrastructure.
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