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Himachal to Cut Bus Routes with Low Ridership, Assures No Bias in Services

The Himachal Road Transport Corporation will discontinue bus services on routes with extremely low passenger demand for economic viability. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri assured the Assembly that there is no bias in providing transport services across constituencies. Opposition BJP legislators raised concerns over route suspensions in Chamba, arguing for maintained service in a welfare state. The issue highlights the tension between financial sustainability and public service obligations in the state's transport sector.

Key Points: HRTC to Rationalize Bus Services on Low-Demand Routes in Himachal

  • Rationalizing low-demand routes
  • Phasing out old buses
  • No discrimination in services
  • Daily transport of 5 lakh passengers
  • Opposition raises concerns
2 min read

HRTC to rationalise bus services on low-demand routes, assures no bias: Deputy CM Agnihotri

Himachal Deputy CM announces rationalization of bus services on low-demand routes, phasing out old buses, while addressing opposition concerns over transport access.

"running buses on routes with negligible passenger volume is not economically viable - Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri"

Shimla, March 18

The Himachal Road Transport Corporation will rationalise its operations by discontinuing bus services on routes with extremely low passenger demand, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri informed the Assembly on Wednesday.

Replying to queries raised during Question Hour, Agnihotri said several routes have also been temporarily suspended due to road damage caused by natural calamities, adding that services would be restored once the affected roads are repaired.

He rejected allegations of discrimination in providing transport services, stating that the government functions impartially and ensures equitable access across constituencies, including those represented by opposition leaders.

Highlighting the operational challenges, the Deputy Chief Minister said that running buses on routes with negligible passenger volume is not economically viable. He added that buses which have completed over nine lakh kilometres or are older than 15 years are being phased out from the fleet.

Agnihotri noted that the corporation continues to play a crucial public service role, transporting around five lakh passengers daily across the state. In Chamba district alone, 203 buses are currently in operation, he said.

On connectivity issues, he clarified that there are no plans to introduce a direct bus service between Langera, Salooni and Tanda, as adequate connecting services are already available.

Meanwhile, BJP legislators, including D. S. Thakur and Hans Raj, raised concerns over the suspension of bus routes in Chamba, arguing that public transport should be maintained even on unprofitable routes in a welfare state.

Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur also urged the government to prioritise public convenience over financial considerations and ensure that transport services are not curtailed in areas represented by opposition MLAs.

The issue highlighted the ongoing debate between financial sustainability and public service obligations in the state's transport sector.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
I understand the economics, but what about the elderly and students in remote villages? A bus service, even if it runs twice a week, is a lifeline. The government's definition of 'adequate connecting services' might not match ground reality. Hope they reconsider for truly isolated areas.
V
Vikram M
Phasing out buses older than 15 years is excellent! This will improve safety and reduce pollution. Our hill states need reliable and modern transport. Good step forward.
S
Sarah B
The opposition has a point about a welfare state. In a country like India, especially in hilly regions, transport is not just a business but an essential service. There has to be a balance. Maybe explore smaller vehicles like minibuses for low-demand routes?
A
Aman W
The assurance of no bias is crucial. In our political system, ruling parties often neglect opposition-held areas. Hope this promise is kept and monitored by local citizens. Jai Himachal! 🙏
K
Kavya N
My family is from Chamba. The roads are terrible after monsoons. Before suspending routes permanently, please fix the roads on priority! Temporary suspension due to damage is understandable, but permanent closure will hurt us badly.

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