CM Urges Collective Support to Make Himachal a Green Energy State, Attends National Truck and Bus Meet
Shimla, April 28:
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today attended the “National Truck and Bus Meet” organized by the All India Motor Transport Congress at Gandhi Gram, in the Kasauli constituency of Solan district, as the chief guest.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister highlighted that Himachal Pradesh, one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in the country, draws millions of visitors each year with its rivers, waterfalls, lakes, orchards, snow-capped peaks, mountains, rich culture, and warm hospitality. However, he noted, the increasing tourist inflow is putting pressure on the environment. Therefore, the current government is focusing on strengthening tourism infrastructure while prioritizing environmental conservation and sustainable development.
He emphasized that the state government has set a target to make Himachal Pradesh a Green Energy State by March 31, 2026. To achieve this goal, the government is promoting the use of electric vehicles and expanding related infrastructure. “I am pleased that this event not only aligns with the vision of sustainable development in Himachal Pradesh but also contributes significantly towards protecting the environment and advancing the green energy movement,” he said. New initiatives are being framed with environmental conservation at their core.
The Chief Minister pointed out that greenhouse gases are a major cause of pollution, with the transport sector alone contributing 16-20% of emissions. He warned that this trend poses a serious threat to both the environment and the overall health of the state.
He noted that the increasing number of petrol and diesel vehicles is a major contributor to pollution, placing immense pressure on the clean environment, which is a matter of grave concern. In response, the government is actively promoting the use of electric vehicles. The Chief Minister stated that these initiatives are proving crucial for environmental protection, reducing air pollution, and conserving natural resources.
Highlighting support for young entrepreneurs, he mentioned the launch of the ₹680 crore Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-up Scheme. Under this, the government offers a 50% subsidy for the purchase of e-taxis, which have been deployed across various government departments, corporations, and boards. So far, 50 e-taxis have been attached to government departments, with another 50 set to be sanctioned before May 10. “I personally use an electric vehicle,” he added, announcing a target to replace 3,000 petrol and diesel vehicles with EVs this year.
The Chief Minister also said that to provide clean and green transport to tourists and residents, the government is gradually replacing diesel buses with electric buses. Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has floated tenders to purchase 297 electric buses at a cost of ₹412 crore, alongside the installation of charging stations at bus stands worth ₹124 crore. Additionally, in the financial year 2025-26, the government plans to purchase 500 more electric buses.
Six green corridors have already been established in the state, and 41 additional charging stations are being set up. Further, the government is offering 100% exemption on road tax and a 50% concession on special road tax for the registration of e-commercial vehicles. All petrol and diesel auto-rickshaws operating in the state are being phased out in favor of e-auto rickshaws to further environmental goals.
To boost self-employment opportunities for youth, the government will issue permits for 1,000 new bus routes to the private sector, offering up to 40% subsidy on the purchase of electric buses or tempo travelers for these routes. Efforts are being made to fully electrify the public transport system in the coming years. In the first phase, all government offices in Hamirpur district will transition to electric vehicles.
“The state government is also encouraging green industries and boosting tourism, making this the ideal time to invest in Himachal Pradesh,” the Chief Minister said.
Also present at the event were Health and Family Welfare Minister Colonel (Dr.) Dhani Ram Shandil, Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, MLAs Vinod Sultanpuri and Sanjay Awasthi, Vice Chairman of Himachal Pradesh Forest Development Corporation Keher Singh Khachi, Jogindra Bank Chairman Mukesh Sharma, APMC Solan Chairman Roshan Thakur, Industries Director Yunus, Tourism Director Vivek Bhatia, AIMTC National President Dr. Harish Sabharwal, Co-Chairman Rakesh Trehan, Conference Chairman Bheem Wadhwa, and other dignitaries.
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