Himachal Pradesh: Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri inaugurates wall exhibition and museum of HRTC

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], October 1 (ANI): Deputy Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Mukesh Agnihotri on Tuesday marked the golden jubilee celebrations of Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) by inaugurating the Wall Exhibition and Museum dedicated to the 50-year journey of HRTC.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy CM highlighted the extraordinary role HRTC has played in connecting the people of Himachal Pradesh despite the challenging terrain and absence of rail or air travel in the region.
"HRTC has a very glorious history," Mukesh Agnihotri remarked. "In a state where neither rail travel nor air travel is prevalent, HRTC has shouldered the immense responsibility of transporting people from one place to another efficiently for the last 50 years," he added.
He further elaborated on the historical milestone that HRTC is about to achieve and said, "On October 2nd, HRTC will complete its 50-year tenure, and on the 12th, we will be celebrating this momentous occasion with all our officers, unions, employees, and stakeholders. Together, we will honor the incredible journey that HRTC has had over the past five decades."
Agnihotri took pride in sharing how HRTC operates over 3,000 buses across Himachal Pradesh. He also emphasised the importance of preserving the corporation's history, pointing to the newly established museum that captures the evolution of HRTC from 1974 till now.
"The museum showcases the buses that were introduced over the years, various awards that were given to the people. The museum not only preserves these relics but also documents the revolutionary and critical decisions that shaped HRTC's future," he said.
He praised the collective efforts of the employees and the corporation in continuing their service, despite challenges like financial losses and unprofitable routes.
"For us, more than profit and loss, it is about the mission of HRTC taking people to their destination. A daily subsidy of Rs. 50 lakhs are given for travel, and we run buses even on loss-making routes, as per the wishes of the government, MLAs, and the public," he said.
He added that, despite facing losses, HRTC continues to ensure timely payment of salaries and pensions to its employees.
Looking to the future, the Deputy CM spoke about the modernization plans for HRTC. "We are about to bring a big change to the state of buses. We aim to replace 2,000 buses in our fleet within a year. HRTC has a policy of removing buses after they've completed either 8 lakh kilometers or 9 years of service. Currently, we have 250 buses that are outdated, and we are set to buy 2,700 e- buses."
In addition to renewing the fleet, Agnihotri announced plans to upgrade HRTC's facilities, including workshops. "We are going to spend major funds on development and for the betterment of our employees."
However, the Deputy CM also pointed some of the challenges the corporation faces in terms of public perception, especially when breakdowns occur. He urged the public to remain patient and acknowledge the critical service that HRTC has provided over the last five decades.
"It's not right to create a ruckus every time there is a breakdown. Please look at the broader picture - HRTC has been serving the people of Himachal for 50 years. We need to maintain an atmosphere of brotherhood and goodwill, and contribute collectively to the progress of the state." Agnihotri added further.
As HRTC steps into its next phase, the focus remains on the safety of the property and well-being of the people. "We request the people of the state to help ensure that our property remains safe. This has always been the spirit of Himachal a land of goodwill and cooperation," he said. (ANI)