Himachal Pradesh Hits the Green Accelerator: E-Buses to Soon Fill the Hills with Zero-Emission Travel

State plans to gradually replace 1500 diesel buses

Dharamsala (Arvind Sharma)22/12/23

Himachal Pradesh is gearing up for a greener future with the ambitious rollout of electric buses. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced plans to replace 1,500 diesel buses from the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) fleet with zero-emission e-buses. This move aligns with the state’s commitment to achieving Green Energy State status by March 31, 2026.

In a meeting with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) companies, CM Sukhu emphasized the need for e-buses specifically designed for Himachal Pradesh’s challenging hilly terrain. He called for adequate loading capacity, boot space, and strict adherence to high-quality manufacturing standards. Tenders for the e-buses will be issued shortly, with a clear timeline for delivery.

The state plans to introduce three types of e-buses: Type 1 for intra-city travel, Type 2 for inter-city routes, and Type 3 for long-distance journeys. This phased approach will ensure comfortable and sustainable travel options for all residents and visitors.

CM Sukhu highlighted the establishment of strategic green corridors as another crucial step towards a cleaner Himachal Pradesh. These corridors, connecting major towns and cities, will prioritize e-bus charging infrastructure and promote green travel practices.

The meeting, held in Dharamshala, saw participation from Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, and representatives of various OEMs. This collaborative effort underscores the state’s determination to make Himachal Pradesh a leader in sustainable transportation.