RTC plans to switch almost 1,000 outdated buses, stated Mukesh Agnihotri.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 commercials from state buses. The choice was taken in the course of the latest Board of Administrators (BOD) assembly of the Himachal Highway Transport Company (HRTC).
Addressing a press convention in Shimla, Deputy CM Agnihotri stated HRTC plans to modernise its fleet by changing almost 1,000 outdated buses.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 as a result of a single bidder, and recent commercials can be issued. Deputy CM Agnihotri reiterated the federal government’s dedication to decreasing emissions and increasing the electrical bus fleet.
Highlighting social considerations, Deputy CM Agnihotri stated, “The choice to take away gutkha and liquor commercials from buses is a part of the federal government’s bigger effort to curb drug dependancy 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 big aid for farmers, the Deputy CM introduced an exemption from baggage prices for transporting milk and greens. “This transfer is designed to assist the agricultural financial system and uplift the agricultural sector,” he stated.
“HRTC is devoted to public welfare,” Deputy CM Agnihotri said. “We now have launched this exemption to assist farmers carry their produce to markets, thereby strengthening the state’s financial 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 courtroom circumstances.
“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 stated.
The Deputy CM highlighted the introduction of superior applied sciences, together with credit score, debit, UPI, and Nationwide Mobility Card techniques in HRTC buses. “Himachal Pradesh is the primary state in India to implement such measures, benefitting the almost 5 lakh passengers HRTC serves day by day,” he added.
“HRTC can’t be run as a purely industrial 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 ascertain computerized automobile testing centres in Hamirpur and Una. He additionally talked about redesigning 148 surrendered routes and reassessing the ISBT Shimla allotment beneath the BOT mannequin.
Responding to opposition criticism, Deputy CM Agnihotri dismissed claims a couple of “rest room tax” as baseless. “The BJP is spreading misinformation. If they need, they will sit in bogs 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 industrial institutions utilizing authorities sewerage traces,” he stated.
The Deputy CM additionally highlighted reforms in HRTC to make sure well timed cost of pensions, salaries, and allowances to workers. “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 NDTV workers and is printed from a syndicated feed.)