Introduction:
The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) recently celebrated its Golden Jubilee, marking HRTC 50 years of dedicated service since its establishment in 1974. Over the decades, HRTC has grown to become a critical part of the state’s public transport system, connecting remote areas and serving millions of passengers. The HRTC Golden Jubilee celebration, held in Shimla, was a significant event, where Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri shared major announcements and highlighted the corporation’s future direction.
This blog will walk you through the key highlights from the HRTC Golden Jubilee celebration, including employee benefits, plans for modernization, and HRTC’s role in the development of Himachal Pradesh.
HRTC’s Journey Over the Last 50 Years
Since its inception in 1974, HRTC has grown remarkably, expanding its fleet from 800 buses to over 3,200 today. The corporation plays an indispensable role in ensuring connectivity, especially in the rugged terrain of Himachal Pradesh, where road transport is often the only means of travel. HRTC buses transport over 600,000 passengers daily, reaching even the most remote villages and towns.
Over the years, HRTC has faced financial challenges but has continued to fulfill its commitment to providing reliable public transport. The Golden Jubilee celebration marked an important milestone in the corporation’s history, reflecting on its achievements and laying out plans for the future.
Key Announcements from the HRTC Golden Jubilee Event
1. 4% DA Increase for HRTC Employees
During the event, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a 4% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for HRTC employees. This brings the DA for HRTC workers in line with other government employees in the state. The increase is expected to provide much-needed financial relief to thousands of employees working tirelessly to keep the buses running efficiently.
2. Salary and Pension Disbursement on October 28, 2024
CM Sukhu assured that all HRTC employees will receive their salaries and pensions on October 28, 2024. This announcement came as a relief to many employees who depend on timely payments to support their families. The government also emphasized its commitment to maintaining regular salary and pension payments, even during financially difficult periods for the corporation.
3. Clearing Pending Dues
Several long-standing financial issues were addressed at the event:
- Medical Bills: Pending medical bills amounting to Rs 9 crore will be cleared within the next two months, ensuring that employees do not have to face financial hardship while seeking medical treatment.
- Overtime Dues: Of the Rs 97 crore pending overtime dues, Rs 50 crore will be paid immediately, with the remaining amount to be disbursed by March 31, 2024. This decision was met with widespread approval, as many employees have been waiting for these payments for 55 months.
HRTC’s Financial Challenges and Future Plans
HRTC has been facing significant financial losses in recent years, despite receiving an annual government grant of over Rs 700 crore. Chief Minister Sukhu acknowledged these challenges and emphasized the need for operational changes to improve HRTC’s financial health. He highlighted that while the government is committed to supporting the corporation, HRTC must also take steps to increase revenue and reduce losses.
Modernization with Green Hydrogen
Looking toward the future, CM Sukhu announced the launch of a Green Hydrogen Project for HRTC, which is expected to commence next month. This initiative aligns with the government’s goal of promoting sustainable and eco-friendly transport options in Himachal Pradesh. By adopting green hydrogen technology, HRTC can not only reduce its carbon footprint but also potentially lower operating costs in the long run. To learn more about HRTC’s commitment to sustainability, check out our detailed blog on Sustainable HRTC Initiatives.
HRTC’s Impact and Commitment to Service
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who also holds the transport portfolio, praised HRTC for its unwavering commitment to providing transport services across Himachal Pradesh. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the difficult terrain and financial pressures but emphasized that the corporation has never wavered in its mission to serve the people.
HRTC’s role in rural connectivity is particularly noteworthy. It is often the lifeline for people living in remote villages, providing them access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Even during challenging times, the government has ensured that employee salaries and pensions are paid on time, and the corporation continues to offer affordable transport services.
Looking Ahead: HRTC’s Role in Himachal’s Future
As HRTC enters its next phase, the focus will be on modernization and sustainability. The launch of the Green Hydrogen Project signals a new chapter in HRTC’s journey, one that prioritizes both financial efficiency and environmental responsibility. The corporation’s fleet will also continue to grow, ensuring that even the most isolated communities in Himachal Pradesh remain connected.
HRTC’s commitment to its employees remains strong, with the government taking concrete steps to address long-standing issues like overtime dues and medical bill settlements. These moves are expected to boost employee morale and contribute to the overall improvement of HRTC’s services.
Conclusion
The 50th anniversary of HRTC is a momentous occasion that reflects not only on the past but also looks forward to the future. With increased support from the government, modernization projects, and a focus on financial reform, HRTC is well-positioned to continue serving the people of Himachal Pradesh for many more decades.
As we celebrate this Golden Jubilee, it’s clear that HRTC remains a vital part of the state’s infrastructure, providing connectivity, employment, and reliable public transport services across the region.
For more updates on HRTC news and service enhancements, visit our News and Updates page. If you’re interested in learning more about HRTC online booking or bus timings, check out our Bus Timings and Routes section for detailed information.
