ESM body appeals to state government to ply HRTC Volvo buses to Mahakumbh at Prayagraj from different parts of the state.

Shimla:

United Front of Ex-Servicemen (JCOs & ORs) Himachal Pradesh, an organization of defence retirees of Army, Navy and Air Force, has appealed to the State Government to start plying HRTC Volvo buses from different locations of the state to take a dip in Mahakumbh in Prayagraj by the people of state including the defence retirees.

Capt Jagdish Verma (Retd) Chairman of this outfit of ESM stated that J & K, Haryana and UT Chandigarh have already commenced to plying their Volvo buses to Prayagraj in view of the welfare measure of the local pilgrims who desire to visit spiritual Sangam ghat for holy dip.

He further told that at the behest of this organization they have sent a mail to the Chief Secretary of the state, Shimla  and requested to ply the buses in consonance with neighbouring states so that people could avail the facility otherwise hefty charges are being taken by the private vehicles for this purpose.

Capt Verma also said, “ Ministry of defence has opened a special helpline: 7880356669, 9044071334 for the convenience of the serving as well as retired defence personnel and their families for availing the guest room, tent accommodation, medical aid and visitors pass system facilities during their visit to Mahakumbh at Prayagraj.”

Ex Servicemen and their families are also advised by the Capt Verma to contact the helpline and book their accommodation well in advance and before commencement of their pilgrimage ensure to carry their Identity as well as Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Cards.