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In a bid to transform Shimla into a leading ‘Green City’, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday said the state government is taking crucial steps to establish adequate charging infrastructure in and around the city to facilitate the smooth operation of electric buses (e-buses).
The State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) has initiated a process of setting up five new charging stations to serving the 70 e-buses currently operating in the city. To facilitate this development, the SRTC has already deposited approximately Rs 3.63 crore to the State Electricity Board for the installation of required transformers, the chief minister said in a statement.
Sukhu said the proposed charging points will be strategically located at Taradevi, Tutikandi crossing, Lalpani, Junga, and Theog in Shimla, ensuring convenient charging facilities for buses within a 40 km radius of the city. Additionally, the existing 1,000 KVA charging station in Dhalli will be upgraded to accommodate 2,000 KVA, further enhancing the charging capabilities.
As part of the Smart City Mission, 20 e-buses have already been allocated to Shimla, expanding the city’s fleet from 50 to 70 buses. Specifically, six buses each have been designated for the New Shimla and Sanjauli sectors, while eight buses have been allocated to the bus stand sector. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has also released tenders for the procurement of additional new electric buses, showcasing the state’s commitment to sustainable transportation, the statement added.
Sukhu highlighted the rapid growth of the electric vehicle industry in India and acknowledged the state government’s efforts to launch schemes and incentives to encourage electric mobility in Himachal. These initiatives aim to ensure that the state’s environment remains carbon-free, despite the rising number of vehicles reliant on fossil fuels. Furthermore, the statement said, the government has undertaken various initiatives to install charging stations along national and state highways, as well as other prominent roads in addition to Shimla city.
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