Himachal to Get 700 New Buses as HRTC Strengthens Transport Services

Shimla: The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) decided to purchase 700 new buses to improve transport services across the state. The decision was made during the 159th meeting of the HRTC Board of Directors, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on Saturday.

Agnihotri said the new buses would improve connectivity to remote villages, benefiting both locals and tourists. “Instructions have been received from the central government to remove 15-year-old diesel buses, after compliance of which the fleet size of the HRTC buses would decrease. The decision to purchase new buses will bring the fleet size back to normal,” he added.

Diesel and Mini Buses in the Pipeline

As part of the expansion plan, the HRTC approved tenders for 250 diesel buses with a 37-seater capacity. Additionally, the process of re-tendering for 100 mini-buses was initiated.

The board also approved the purchase of two quick-response vehicles and four cranes to improve road safety and emergency response.

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HRTC Reports Rs 70 Crore Revenue

Officials revealed that HRTC earned approximately Rs 70 crore in the last year. Managing Director Rohan Chand Thakur stated that further improvements would be made in the corporation’s operations to increase revenue and enhance transport services.

With this initiative, the Himachal government aims to modernise public transport and ensure better road connectivity for the people of the state.