HRTC eyes long routes with Volvo fleet to regain financial stability

In a strategic push to reverse its financial woes, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) is set to challenge the monopoly of private operators on long-distance routes by introducing state-of-the-art Volvo buses. Speaking at a press conference in Dharamsala, HRTC vice-president Ajay Verma emphasised the corporation’s plan to tap into profitable tourist circuits while maintaining the trust it enjoys across Himachal Pradesh.

Verma revealed that HRTC is preparing to induct the latest version of Volvo buses to ply routes connecting established tourist destinations. “This move will help the corporation earn profits and reduce its reliance on government aid,” he said, adding that strict action would also be taken against illegally operating Volvo buses at designated check posts.

Highlighting HRTC’s commitment to sustainability, Verma stated that the government is prioritising the addition of electric buses to promote green transportation. “Concrete steps are being taken to make HRTC self-reliant and viable. Profit-making routes are being initiated, and new buses—especially electric ones—are being added to the fleet,” he said. Notably, 15 electric buses have already arrived in Dharamsala.

Outlining the operations of the Dharamsala division, Verma shared that it manages 601 routes—378 local and 223 long-distance—with the help of 2,485 employees. The division oversees seven depots and one divisional workshop located at Jassur, including those at Dharamsala, Palampur, Nagrota Bagwan, Baijnath, Jogindernagar, Pathankot and Chamba.

The current fleet under this division comprises 699 buses, including 407 ordinary buses, 214 JNNURM buses, 18 Volvo buses, 14 AC buses, 25 non-AC deluxe buses, 15 electric buses, and six Tempo Travellers. These buses collectively cover approximately 1.3 lakh km daily across all 601 routes.

Despite its financial challenges, HRTC continues to be a preferred travel choice for passengers due to its comfort, reliability, and extensive network. Verma credited this continued trust to the dedication and efficiency of HRTC employees, who, he said, “work tirelessly day and night to ensure smooth transport services across the state.”