Representational Image: himachalwatcher
Himachal becomes the second Indian state to run the zero emission electric buses after it was first introduced in Bengaluru (Karnataka) in Feb. 2014.
The Minister for Transport Mr. GS Bali informed that the Central government has sanctioned Rs 35 crore for the project and the tendering process has started. The project will be funded on 75:25 ratio between the union and state government. As the state falls under “Special Category State” – he will be requesting to the Union Minister for Surface Transport Mr. Nitin Gadkari to revise the ratio to 90:10.
Elaborating further on the services the minister informed that the tenders to purchase electric buses and setting up charging stations would be floated soon. To ensure women’s safety, CCTV cameras and LED lights will be installed in all HRTC bus terminals.
ATM machines will also be set up at 18 bus stands by next month. The HRTC will also start a 24×7 call center and a Whats App group for government and private transport, where any passenger can submit his/her complaints or suggestions.
Himachal Road Transport Corporation would phase out over 647 old buses this year which are more than 10 years old and 300 new buses would be added to its fleet. Zero emission mode of transport would help reduce pollution in the hill state, which had a fragile ecology.
The Logical Indian appreciates this initiative by Himachal Pradesh govt. that will help in curbing the air pollution and we also hope that other state govt. start working in this direction.
