Himachal transport corporation to add 1,300 buses to its fleet

The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) will add 1,300 buses to its 2,100-strong fleet to enhance road connectivity across the state.
The corporation will buy 500 new buses so that better services could be provided to the people living in remote areas and another 800 buses will be acquired under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).
At present, HRTC runs buses on about 2,850 inter- and intra-state routes, an official spokesman said.
With the arrival of new buses, the HRTC would increase the number of buses and their frequency under several schemes introduce for the benefit of the commuters. A decision has been taken recently by the government to reserve 40 per cent seats for women, senior citizens and patients.

HRTC is also providing free travel to Gallantry Award winners in ordinary and deluxe buses of the corporation within the state, the spokesman said.
Students of all government schools will also enjoy free ride while going to coming from their school.

The corporation has also introduced a new 'Green Card' scheme where passengers could avail 30 per cent discount in fare for journey over more than 40 km and less than 60 km.
The HRTC will also provide five per cent discount to those booking their tickets online at least five days before the journey. Online reservation is available for all types of buses of corporation.

Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh has directed the HRTC to provide qualitative, timely and better services throughout the state, the spokesman added.