PNS | DEHRADUN
In a significant boost to Uttarakhand’s public transport infrastructure, chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off 130 new Bharat Stage (BS)-VI model buses at Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) in Dehradun on Sunday. The roadways buses had previously faced issues in Delhi due to the mandatory operation of BS-VI vehicles, aimed at addressing air pollution in the city. Some buses were reportedly halted in Delhi multiple times for failing to comply with these regulations. However, with the introduction of these new BS-VI buses, the situation will improve significantly, ensuring compliance with Delhi’s environmental standards and facilitating smoother operations.
The CM said that these buses are equipped with advanced technology and will offer safe, affordable and comfortable travel for passengers while energising economic, social and tourism activities within the State. He stated that these buses are meant to modernise the public transportation in the State which has challenging geographical conditions. He said that remote and rural areas often rely on the public transport network for access to basic services and it is crucial to continuously strengthen it. “Effective transport infrastructure is not only essential for passenger convenience but also contributes to economic development. We are committed to connecting every corner of the state with a better road network and reliable transport services,” he added. Emphasising the efforts of the government to strengthen the Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC), the CM commended the officials and employees of the corporation and the Transport department. He said that while the UTC once faced losses of over Rs 500 crore, it has been profitable over the past three years. He also shared plans for introducing electric buses to the fleet soon. He said that the government is also aware of issues of drivers and conductors and as part of welfare measures, it has recently announced incentives for drivers, conductors and technical staff for their service, particularly during Deepawali.
He acknowledged UTC employees’ concerns and assured steps for their welfare, including dearness allowance increments, the implementation of the seventh pay commission and efforts to address manpower shortages through recruitment. Dharampur MLA Vinod Chamoli also praised Dhami’s leadership and stated that a 10 per cent increase in the UTC’s bus fleet in a single phase is a significant achievement for the State. He emphasised the importance of continued efforts of the government to enhance the UTC’s profitability as well as ongoing beautification and encroachment control at ISBT.
