Himachal CM Flags Off 24 State-of-the-Art Volvo Buses, Reaffirms Commitment to Green Energy and Public Transport Reforms.
Shimla:
In a significant move aimed at strengthening the public transport infrastructure and furthering the state’s vision of sustainable development, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu flagged off 24 state-of-the-art Volvo buses from Kyari Ghat in Solan yesterday. The new additions to the fleet are part of a broader government initiative to modernize transportation and transform Himachal into a ‘Green Energy State’.
Addressing a large gathering during the launch, the Chief Minister emphasized the state government’s unwavering commitment to providing world-class transport facilities to the people. “With limited rail and air connectivity in Himachal Pradesh, road transport remains the backbone of our public mobility. Strengthening the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) is crucial for ensuring comfortable and accessible transport for every citizen,” he said.
Highlighting the financial commitment of his administration, CM Sukhu said the government has allocated an annual grant of Rs. 1,000 crore over the last two years to improve HRTC services. “We have already procured 500 diesel buses, 300 electric buses, and around 30 Volvo buses. Soon, another 100 Tempo Travelers will be added to our fleet,” he announced. Currently, HRTC receives a monthly subsidy of Rs. 60 crore to sustain operations and enhance services.
Reinforcing the state’s dedication to green mobility, the Chief Minister revealed that major steps are being taken to promote electric and hydrogen-powered buses. “We are making large-scale investments in charging infrastructure with a proposed expenditure of Rs.110 crore. This aligns with our vision to establish Himachal as a Green Energy State,” he said.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, also present at the event, praised HRTC’s remarkable journey over the last five decades. “Our buses are not just vehicles; they are the lifeline of Himachal. Every day, 4 to 5 lakh passengers rely on HRTC. We are expanding our fleet and even connecting remote areas and long-distance routes like Delhi to Leh,” he said.
Agnihotri further highlighted the state’s commitment to its transport workforce. “Employees of HRTC have received substantial benefits, including the implementation of the Old Pension Scheme and disbursement of pending arrears. We are also constructing new bus stands across the state to improve service delivery,” he added.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil lauded the initiative, stating that the new Volvo buses will not only increase state revenue but also offer a more comfortable travel experience to citizens and tourists alike. “The efforts of the Chief Minister are evident in every sector, especially in welfare and development schemes that aim to uplift the socio-economic status of the people,” he said.
The event was graced by several prominent dignitaries including Deputy Speaker Vinay Kumar, Jogindera Cooperative Bank President Mukesh Sharma, HRTC Vice Chairman Ajay Verma, HP Youth Congress President Chattar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary (Transport and Industries) R.D. Nazim, HRTC Managing Director Nipun Jindal, Vice Chancellor of Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry Dr. Rajeshwar Chandel, Deputy Commissioner Manmohan Sharma, and Superintendent of Police Gaurav Singh.
The launch of these Volvo buses marks a progressive step in the state’s journey toward sustainable development, enhanced mobility, and improved quality of life for its people.
