Himachal Dy CM says electric buses operational soon, four new e-depots to be launched

Shimla, July 16 (PTI) Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on Thursday said all formalities regarding the running of electric buses were being completed, and they would be made operational very soon. Presiding over the 163rd meeting of the board of directors of the Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) here, Agnihotri, who also holds the transport portfolio, said four new e-depots being constructed in the state would also be made functional at the earliest. Various issues related to the corporation's operations, passenger amenities and the strengthening of the public transport system were discussed during the meeting, and a review was also conducted regarding the trials and operational preparations for the 297 electric buses being inducted into the state's fleet in a phased manner, a statement issued here said. Expressing displeasure over the shortage of tyres for the corporation's buses, Agnihotri directed officials to ensure that bus operations were not hampered in the future due to a lack of tyres, spare parts or other essential materials. He emphasised the need to ensure the timely availability of essential items and to make alternative arrangements in advance so that bus operations remain uninterrupted under any circumstances and passengers do not face inconvenience. The deputy chief minister said the state government was continuously working to make the public transport system modern, safe and eco-friendly. The operation of electric buses and the launch of new e-depots would promote green transport in the state and provide passengers with better and more convenient transport services, he added. PTI BPL PRK