Himachal Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri Celebrates 50 Years of HRTC with New Museum and Future Plans

On Tuesday, Deputy Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Mukesh Agnihotri, celebrated the golden jubilee of the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) by inaugurating a Wall Exhibition and Museum. This event marks the 50-year journey of HRTC, which has been crucial in connecting the people of Himachal Pradesh despite the challenging terrain and lack of rail or air travel.

Agnihotri highlighted the significant role HRTC has played over the years. He said, "HRTC has a very glorious history. 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 announced that on October 2nd, HRTC will complete its 50-year tenure, and on October 12th, a grand celebration will be held with officers, unions, employees, and stakeholders to honor this milestone.

Agnihotri shared that HRTC operates over 3,000 buses across the state and emphasized the importance of preserving its history through the newly established museum. The museum showcases the evolution of HRTC from 1974 to the present, including buses introduced over the years and various awards.

Despite challenges like financial losses and unprofitable routes, HRTC continues to serve the public. Agnihotri stated, "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 is given for travel, and we run buses even on loss-making routes."

Looking ahead, Agnihotri announced plans to modernize HRTC by replacing 2,000 buses within a year and buying 2,700 e-buses. He also mentioned upgrading HRTC's facilities, including workshops, to improve services and employee welfare.

He urged the public to remain patient during breakdowns and appreciate the critical service 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," he said.

As HRTC moves forward, the focus remains on the safety of property and the well-being of the people. Agnihotri requested the public to help ensure the safety of HRTC property, reflecting the spirit of goodwill and cooperation in Himachal Pradesh.