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Himachal to Retire 500 HRTC Buses in Two Months in Major Fleet Overhaul

The overhaul advances an electric shift with real-time tracking despite battery contract snags.

Overview

  • Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said 500 old or unfit buses will be withdrawn within two months, with units delivering 2–2.5 km per litre also set for removal.
  • Officials outlined additions of 747 vehicles: 297 electric buses already ordered, tenders reissued for 250 diesel buses, plus procurement of 100 mini (24-seater) buses and 100 tempo travellers.
  • A vehicle tracking system for real-time location will be installed across the HRTC fleet.
  • Electric-mobility groundwork includes 34 e-service stations ready, while 17 newly procured buses are sidelined by battery issues costing about ₹24 lakh each linked to older contract clauses.
  • Employee measures include releasing the long-pending 3% arrears by March 31, 2026 in four instalments and clearing six months of medical reimbursements, alongside the HIM Bus portal launch and salary-account MoUs with Axis Bank, UCO Bank and Punjab National Bank.