In a notable step toward environmentally sustainable urban governance, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday flagged off a fleet of 10 electric waste collection vehicles for the Municipal Corporation Shimla from the state secretariat in Shimla. The initiative positions the civic body as the first urban local authority in Himachal Pradesh to begin a phased transition toward an all-electric fleet for waste management operations.
The deployment follows a series of trial runs conducted between November 10 and 14, 2025, during which the vehicles were tested across the city’s challenging terrain. Officials confirmed that the vehicles performed reliably under varying conditions, demonstrating their suitability for Shimla’s hilly landscape.
Each vehicle is equipped with a waste collection capacity of one tonne and has been procured at an approximate cost of ₹13.98 lakh. Supporting infrastructure has also been established, including dedicated charging facilities at the Municipal Corporation’s parking complex to ensure operational efficiency. On a full charge, the vehicles are capable of covering a distance of approximately 130 to 150 kilometers, making them viable for daily municipal operations.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting electric mobility as part of its broader environmental agenda. He noted that the transition to electric vehicles was outlined as a priority in the state’s first budget under the current administration, reflecting a long-term vision to reduce carbon emissions and operational costs.
He further stated that the initiative aligns with the government’s goal of transforming Himachal Pradesh into a leading “green state” in India. By replacing conventional fuel-based vehicles, the municipal body is expected to significantly cut down on fuel expenditure while contributing to cleaner air and reduced noise pollution in the city.
Senior members of the state cabinet, including Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh, and Town and Country Planning Minister Rajesh Dharmani, were present at the event. They were joined by senior officials, elected representatives, and members of the municipal administration, including Mayor Surender Chauhan and Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal.
The initiative is being seen as a model for other urban local bodies in the state, particularly as cities grapple with rising fuel costs and increasing environmental concerns. By integrating electric mobility into essential civic services such as waste management, Shimla has taken a decisive step toward modernizing its urban infrastructure while reinforcing its ecological commitments.
