Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said the state government is focusing on modernising public transport, promoting green mobility and strengthening HRTC’s financial position.
Speaking at Kyarighat in Solan during the flag-off of 297 electric buses, Agnihotri said HRTC plans to add 1,000 more e-buses in the coming years, taking the electric fleet to 507.
He said the newly launched HimBus Plus Card would provide passengers a seamless travel experience by integrating existing HRTC travel benefits into a single smart card. Available at an annual fee of Rs 365, the card can also be used for Delhi Metro and bus services in Punjab and Haryana.
Agnihotri said the new electric buses have been designed for Himachal’s hilly terrain and will help reduce operational costs and pollution. He added that Olectra Greentech Limited will maintain the buses for 12 years.
Highlighting employee welfare measures, he said 9,099 HRTC employees have benefited from the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme, while 686 new recruitments and regularisation of 2,198 contractual employees have been completed in the last three years. Around Rs 70 crore has also been released towards pending employee benefits.
He said the government remains committed to supporting HRTC and ensuring reliable transport services across the state.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
