Himachal Pradesh Drives Toward a Greener Future with Upcoming E-Bus Fleet

State plans to gradually replace 1500 diesel buses

Dharamsala (Arvind Sharma)22/12/23

Himachal Pradesh is gearing up for a major environmental overhaul, setting its sights on replacing 1500 diesel buses with zero-emission e-buses in a phased transition. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu recently met with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) companies, urging them to tailor e-buses specifically for the state’s challenging hilly terrain, ensuring adequate loading capacity and boot space. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high-quality standards throughout the manufacturing process.

Tenders for e-bus procurement are expected soon, with strict delivery timelines in place. The state envisions a cost-effective and sustainable strategy, gradually replacing diesel buses within the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) fleet. Chief Minister Sukhu reiterated the government’s commitment to providing both comfortable transportation for citizens and a carbon-free, environmentally friendly approach.

By introducing type 1, 2, and 3 e-buses in stages, Himachal Pradesh aims to achieve a clean and green transformation. This aligns with the government’s ambitious target of becoming a Green Energy State by March 31, 2026. Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted the creation of strategic green corridors like Parwanoo-Nalagarh-Una-Hamirpur-Sansarpur and Mandi-Jogindernagar-Palampur-Dharamshala-Kangra-Pathankot as concrete steps towards this goal.

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, along with Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Bharat Khera, Principal Secretary Transport RD Nazeem, HRTC Managing Director Rohan Chand Thakur, Director Transport Anupam Kashyap, and representatives of various OEMs participated in the meeting, showcasing the collective effort driving this green initiative.