Celebrating 50 Years of Service: HRTC’s Golden Jubilee
Himachal Pradesh recently witnessed a momentous occasion as Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presided over the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC). This landmark event not only commemorated the corporation’s 50-year journey but also set the stage for significant announcements aimed at revitalizing its operations and enhancing its service to the public.
Acknowledging HRTC’s Impact
During the celebrations, Chief Minister Sukhu took the opportunity to commend the HRTC for its pivotal role in the development of Himachal Pradesh. Over the past five decades, the corporation has transformed from a modest transport service into a vital lifeline for the state’s residents, particularly in challenging terrains. The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of HRTC in connecting remote areas, facilitating tourism, and contributing to the overall socio-economic development of the region.
Financial Reforms and Employee Welfare
One of the key announcements made by Chief Minister Sukhu was the commitment to ensure timely disbursement of salaries for HRTC employees and pensions for retirees. To address the long-standing issue of overtime dues, an allocation of Rs. 50 crore was announced to cover 55 months of pending payments. Additionally, the Chief Minister assured that outstanding medical bills amounting to Rs. 9 crore would be cleared soon, reflecting the government’s dedication to employee welfare.
In a move aimed at bolstering the corporation’s workforce, Sukhu also revealed plans to regularize 1,546 contract employees and create 608 new jobs. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to enhance the financial health of HRTC and ensure that it remains a robust public service provider.
Embracing Sustainability: The ‘Green HRTC’ Initiative
In a significant step towards environmental sustainability, Chief Minister Sukhu announced the ambitious plan for HRTC to transition to a ‘Green HRTC’ by integrating electric vehicles into its fleet by March 2025. This initiative is expected to not only reduce the corporation’s carbon footprint but also improve its financial viability.
As part of this green initiative, the Chief Minister unveiled plans for the procurement of 210 new ordinary buses, 11 Volvo buses, and 35 electric buses. Looking ahead, HRTC aims to acquire an additional 297 Type-1 electric buses and 30 Type-3 electric buses, with a substantial budget of Rs. 327 crore allocated for this transformative project. This forward-thinking approach positions HRTC at the forefront of sustainable transportation in the region.
Celebrating Achievements and Future Aspirations
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who graced the event as a special guest, praised the professionalism and dedication of HRTC employees. He emphasized the corporation’s crucial role in providing public services in the state’s challenging terrains, highlighting its commitment to prioritizing public welfare over profit. With improved occupancy rates and extensive passenger reach, HRTC continues to be a reliable travel service for the people of Himachal Pradesh.
The Golden Jubilee celebrations also featured vibrant cultural performances, showcasing the rich heritage of the state. A significant highlight of the event was the release of HRTC’s Coffee Table Book, which commemorates its achievements and milestones over the past 50 years. Prominent figures, including Principal Secretary Transport R.D. Nazim and Managing Director HRTC Rohan Chand Thakur, reflected on the corporation’s enduring impact and future aspirations. The event concluded with a heartfelt note of gratitude from Executive Director Dr. Murari Lal, emphasizing the collective efforts that have contributed to HRTC’s success.
Conclusion
The Golden Jubilee celebrations of HRTC marked not just a celebration of its past but also a commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future. With the government’s renewed focus on employee welfare, financial reforms, and environmental sustainability, HRTC is poised to continue its legacy as a vital public service in Himachal Pradesh. As the corporation embarks on this new chapter, it remains dedicated to serving the people of the state, ensuring that the next 50 years are even more impactful than the last.