600 HRTC Buses to Stop in Punjab Amid Rising Attacks, Announces Himachal Deputy CM

Shimla, March 22, 2025: In a stern response to the growing security concerns of Himachal Pradesh’s HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) buses in Punjab, Himachal’s Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister Mukesh Agnihotri declared that 600 HRTC buses will no longer be parked at bus depots in Punjab until the complete safety of the buses, drivers, conductors, and passengers is assured. Instead, these buses will be stationed at the Himachal border until the situation normalizes. The state government is also contemplating the suspension of certain bus routes to safeguard passengers and staff.

This announcement comes after a series of attacks on Himachal buses in Punjab, including incidents where buses were vandalized and objectionable slogans, such as “Khalistan,” were scrawled on them. These attacks have raised serious concerns regarding the safety and security of Himachal’s public transport system and its personnel in neighboring Punjab.

Deputy CM Agnihotri stated in the House that the issue had already been brought to the attention of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, with Himachal Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu personally speaking to Mann. Additionally, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Himachal Pradesh has been in contact with his counterpart in Punjab, urging the need for immediate action. “The safety of our drivers, conductors, and passengers is our top priority,” Agnihotri said, emphasizing the government’s resolve to ensure the safety of its transport system.

Rising Attacks on HRTC Buses

The Deputy CM revealed that Himachal buses have been repeatedly targeted in Punjab, with the latest incident involving the attack on four HRTC buses in Amritsar. These buses had their windscreens smashed, and controversial slogans were written on them, further escalating the already tense situation. The buses operated by major depots, including Bilaspur, Una, Dehra, and Hamirpur, have especially been the target of these attacks.

HRTC Division Manager Raj Kumar Pathak provided details on the specific incidents, confirming that buses from Bilaspur, Dehra, and Una depots were vandalized, while buses from the Hamirpur depot had controversial slogans written on them.

Government Takes Action: FIR and Strict Measures

In response to the attacks, the Himachal government has acted swiftly, registering FIRs in connection with the incidents. Deputy CM Agnihotri assured that stringent action would be taken against those responsible for the attacks. He reiterated that the Himachal government would collaborate with the Punjab government to address the situation and find a lasting solution.

“This is not just an attack on our buses; it is a direct assault on the strong bond between Himachal and Punjab. We will not tolerate such actions under any circumstances,” Agnihotri firmly declared. He also mentioned that future steps would be decided after further talks with the Punjab government.

Ensuring Safety of Drivers and Passengers

Highlighting the role of HRTC personnel, the Deputy CM emphasized that the safety of drivers, conductors, and passengers was paramount. “The drivers and conductors work tirelessly, day and night, to ensure the safety and comfort of our passengers. It is the government’s responsibility to prioritize their safety and well-being,” Agnihotri stated, reiterating that the Himachal government would take all necessary steps to protect its transport staff and passengers.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Punjab government will respond to these developments. However, the escalating attacks have significantly strained the relationship between the two states, and the Himachal government’s decision to withdraw buses from Punjab marks a critical stand in ensuring the safety of its citizens.