RTC plans to interchange practically 1,000 outdated buses, mentioned Mukesh Agnihotri. (Representational)
Shimla:
Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on Tuesday introduced the federal government’s resolution to take away gutkha and liquor ads from state buses. The choice was taken in the course of the current Board of Administrators (BOD) assembly of the Himachal Highway Transport Company (HRTC).
Addressing a press convention in Shimla, Deputy CM Agnihotri mentioned HRTC plans to modernise its fleet by changing practically 1,000 outdated buses. This consists of the addition of 327 electrical buses, 250 small buses, and 100 mini-tempo buses. He additionally revealed that tenders for twenty-four Volvo buses had been rejected attributable to a single bidder, and recent ads could be issued. Deputy CM Agnihotri reiterated the federal government’s dedication to lowering emissions and increasing the electrical bus fleet.
Highlighting social considerations, Deputy CM Agnihotri mentioned, “The choice to take away gutkha and liquor ads from buses is a part of the federal government’s bigger effort to curb drug habit and promote a more healthy society.” He added that the modifications are aimed toward prioritising public welfare, bettering companies, and strengthening the state’s transport infrastructure.
In a major reduction for farmers, the Deputy CM introduced an exemption from baggage costs for transporting milk and greens. “This transfer is designed to help the agricultural economic system and uplift the agricultural sector,” he mentioned.
“HRTC is devoted to public welfare,” Deputy CM Agnihotri acknowledged. “We’ve got launched this exemption to assist farmers carry their produce to markets, thereby strengthening the state’s economic system,” he added.
Deputy CM Agnihotri additionally addressed the continuing authorized challenges confronted by HRTC, revealing that the company is concerned in over 3,000 court docket instances.
“HRTC has recorded a 14% income enhance from April to October, reaching Rs66 crore. We’re specializing in modernising and increasing our fleet, introducing new electrical and diesel buses, and guaranteeing higher companies for the individuals of Himachal,” he mentioned.
The Deputy CM highlighted the introduction of superior applied sciences, together with credit score, debit, UPI, and Nationwide Mobility Card methods in HRTC buses. “Himachal Pradesh is the primary state in India to implement such measures, benefitting the practically 5 lakh passengers HRTC serves every day,” he added.
“HRTC can’t be run as a purely business entity,” Deputy CM Agnihotri remarked. “We function on loss-making routes to serve distant areas and supply important companies. Moreover, we provide vital concessions, together with 50% reductions for girls and rebates throughout 28 classes. These efforts require substantial monetary help from the federal government,” he defined.
On infrastructure growth, Deputy CM Agnihotri introduced plans to determine computerized automobile testing centres in Hamirpur and Una. He additionally talked about redesigning 148 surrendered routes and reassessing the ISBT Shimla allotment below the BOT mannequin.
Responding to opposition criticism, Deputy CM Agnihotri dismissed claims a few “bathroom tax” as baseless. “The BJP is spreading misinformation. If they need, they’ll sit in bathrooms all day to verify no such tax exists. The sewerage tax, levied at 30% nationally, was launched throughout BJP’s tenure. Our authorities has merely amended it to make sure equity for giant business institutions utilizing authorities sewerage strains,” he mentioned.
The Deputy CM additionally highlighted reforms in HRTC to make sure well timed fee of pensions, salaries, and allowances to staff. “HRTC isn’t just a transport company; it is a lifeline for the individuals of Himachal Pradesh,” he emphasised.
“With such progressive measures, the state authorities is setting an instance of how public welfare and infrastructure growth can go hand in hand,” he concluded.
(Aside from the headline, this story has not been edited by EDNBOX employees and is printed from a syndicated feed.)