Himachal Pradesh Government to Boost Rural Connectivity with Tempo Traveller Permits for Private Operators
Shimla, 04 December: In an effort to strengthen rural transportation and create self-employment opportunities, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced the issuance of route permits for private operators to operate tempo travellers. This bold move is designed to address the transport challenges in regions with lower bus passenger occupancy, particularly in rural areas, and provide an alternative mode of transport while supporting local entrepreneurs.
Enhancing Rural Transportation through Tempo Travellers
The decision to introduce tempo travellers on select rural routes comes as part of the state government’s initiative to improve accessibility in areas that often face transport limitations. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who also oversees the Transport portfolio, outlined that the state’s Transport Department would be tasked with identifying routes where the demand for passenger buses is low but where tempo travellers could effectively fill the gap.
“The primary goal of this initiative is to optimize existing resources and avoid financial strain on private bus operators while still improving transport services in areas with low passenger demand,” said Agnihotri.
A Cost-Effective Solution for Rural Areas
Tempo travellers, with fewer seats compared to buses, are seen as an ideal solution for routes where buses are either too large or under-utilized. By deploying smaller vehicles, the government aims to offer a more efficient and financially viable mode of transportation for rural populations. This step is expected to bridge critical gaps in the public transport network without imposing unnecessary burdens on the state’s resources or causing losses for private bus operators.
“The tempo traveller scheme ensures that the transportation needs of rural areas are met efficiently. It also addresses the issue of low passenger occupancy that often plagues large buses on less-traveled routes,” added Agnihotri.
Empowering Local Entrepreneurs through Self-Employment
In addition to improving rural transport, the scheme is designed to generate self-employment opportunities within the state. By allowing private operators to run tempo travellers, the government is opening up avenues for unemployed individuals, particularly in rural communities, to start their own businesses. This will not only enhance local livelihoods but also ensure that the transport service is run by those familiar with the needs of the community.
“Private operators will now have the chance to contribute to the local economy while meeting the transport needs of rural areas. This initiative fosters self-employment and encourages local entrepreneurs to take an active role in improving transportation,” said Agnihotri.
Transport Department Surveys to Finalize Routes
To ensure the effective implementation of the scheme, the Transport Department will conduct surveys at the district level to identify the most suitable routes for tempo travellers. Regional transport officers will assess the existing gaps in the transport network and determine areas where tempo travellers could offer a feasible and cost-effective solution.
Once the routes are finalized, private operators will be granted permits to operate on the identified routes, making the process streamlined and efficient for all involved.
A Win-Win Solution for Passengers and Operators
The tempo traveller scheme promises to be a win-win for both passengers and private operators. For passengers in remote areas, it provides more frequent and reliable transportation options. For private operators, it opens new revenue streams while minimizing the risk of financial losses that often come with running large buses on underused routes.
With the launch of this initiative, Himachal Pradesh is set to make significant strides in improving rural connectivity and ensuring that its transport system is both efficient and sustainable. The scheme will not only alleviate transport challenges but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the state by fostering self-employment and reducing the urban-rural divide in access to services.
Continuing the achievement of the journey of effectiveness and credibility of more than 10 years in the career of journalism, as a woman journalist, I am Serving as the founder, promoter and editor of DiaryTimes with the trust and support of all. My credible coverage may not have given a big shape to the numbers, but my journey presents articles that make you aware of the exact and meaningful situations of Himachal’s politics, ground issues related to the public, business, tourism and the difficult geographical conditions of the state and financial awareness. DiaryTimes, full of the experience of my precise editorial expertise, is awakening the flame of credible journalism among all of you, so that the eternal flame of meaningful change can be lit in the life of the people of the state and the atrocities being committed against the people can be brought to the fore, I am motivated for that. If even a small change comes with the power of my journalism and the whole world becomes a witness to that issues, then I will consider myself fortunate.
