In a significant move towards sustainable transportation, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu announced an ambitious plan to transition the state-run Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) to electric buses by March 2025. The announcement was made during the golden jubilee celebrations of HRTC, where the Chief Minister highlighted the corporation's invaluable contribution to the state's development.

Addressing a gathering that included Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Sukhu praised the HRTC for evolving from its humble beginnings to becoming a reliable and comfortable travel option for the state's residents. He credited the dedication of HRTC’s officers and employees for their role in the corporation's success over the past 50 years.

As part of the celebrations, the Chief Minister made several key announcements regarding employee welfare. He revealed that salaries for HRTC employees and pensions for retirees would be disbursed on October 28. Additionally, a budget of ?500 million has been allocated to cover 55 months of overtime dues, with a commitment to complete the distribution by March 31, 2025. The government also aims to settle pending medical bills amounting to ?90 million within two months.

Sukhu emphasized that the electrification of HRTC's fleet would not only improve environmental sustainability but also strengthen the corporation's financial health. He urged HRTC to strategize for the next 50 years, reflecting on the financial mismanagement of the previous government that had left the corporation in the red. He reiterated the present government's commitment to reform and revitalize the transport sector.

Under the current administration, significant employee welfare measures have been implemented, including the reinstatement of the old pension scheme for approximately 7,300 employees, the regularization of 1,546 contract workers, and the creation of 608 new jobs within HRTC. An additional 550 positions are in the process of being filled, and 421 employees have recently been promoted.

During the event, Sukhu also unveiled HRTC’s coffee table book and recognized officers and employees for their exceptional contributions. Deputy Chief Minister Agnihotri emphasized that the professionalism and dedication of HRTC staff are pivotal to the corporation's strength, which has earned public trust and improved occupancy rates.

With nearly six lakh passengers relying on HRTC for their travel needs, the corporation serves as a lifeline for the state's challenging terrain. Agnihotri expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for allocating ?3.27 bn for the purchase of electric buses, marking a significant step toward a greener future for public transport in Himachal Pradesh.