HRTC Golden Jubilee: A Celebration of Five Decades of Service and Modernization Plans

Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri celebrated the Himachal Road Transport Corporation’s 50 years by inaugurating a wall exhibition and a museum. He emphasized HRTC’s vital role in connecting Himachal Pradesh’s people and shared plans for fleet modernization and improved facilities despite financial challenges.

Deputy Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Mukesh Agnihotri, on Tuesday, marked the golden jubilee celebrations of Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) by inaugurating a Wall Exhibition and Museum dedicated to its 50-year journey. Speaking at the event, Agnihotri highlighted HRTC's extraordinary role in connecting the people of Himachal Pradesh despite the challenging terrain and lack of rail or air travel.

"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 efficiently for the last 50 years," he added. The Deputy CM noted the historic milestone HRTC is set to achieve on October 2nd and announced celebrations involving officers, unions, employees, and stakeholders on October 12th.

Agnihotri expressed pride in HRTC's operation of over 3,000 buses across Himachal Pradesh and emphasized the importance of preserving its history through the newly established museum. He also praised the collective efforts of employees in overcoming challenges such as financial losses and unprofitable routes. "For us, more than profit and loss, it is about HRTC's mission of taking people to their destination," he stressed.

Despite financial struggles, Agnihotri assured timely payments of salaries and pensions to HRTC employees. Looking ahead, he revealed plans for modernization, including the replacement of 2,000 buses within a year and the acquisition of 2,700 e-buses. The Deputy CM also mentioned upgrading HRTC's facilities, including workshops, and urged the public to remain patient during breakdowns, recognizing HRTC's critical service over the 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 collectively contribute to the state's progress," Agnihotri added.

(With inputs from agencies.)