Local buses proposed to ease travel in BBN industrial cluster

To address transportation challenges in the Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh (BBN) industrial cluster, the administration is exploring the introduction of Mudrika buses on key routes. Baddi SDM Vivek Mahajan initiated this proposal with the Transport Department in November. Following his efforts, the Principal Secretary, Transport, has directed various agencies, including the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and the Himachal Pradesh City Transport and Bus Stands Management and Development Authority, to take the necessary steps.

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Mahajan confirmed that the lack of local buses had been causing significant inconvenience to residents and factory workers. This concern was raised during a meeting with the Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh Industries Association and highlighted to the Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who also holds the Transport portfolio. During his recent visit to the area, Agnihotri announced the deployment of five Mudrika buses to improve connectivity.

The SDM emphasised that while industrial houses provide buses for their staff, labourers face severe difficulties. Many are forced to walk long distances to their workplaces or hire expensive three-wheelers, charging Rs 100 to Rs 150 per trip. Women workers are particularly vulnerable, with late evening commutes exposing them to safety risks due to the area’s high crime rate.

The administration has identified key routes for the proposed buses and submitted the plan to the Transport Department. These buses aim to provide affordable and reliable transportation, reducing dependency on private vehicles and enhancing safety for workers and residents.

Residents expressed hope that the HRTC’s initiative would address their longstanding grievances. The lack of local buses has been a persistent issue, raised repeatedly with successive governments but ignored until now.