Major Relief in Bus Pass Fares for Private School Students in Himachal

Shimla, May 24:
In a significant move benefiting students of private schools, Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has announced a major reduction in bus pass fares. The decision came after a delegation of parents from Shimla met with him on Saturday to raise concerns over the recently hiked fares and other transport-related issues.

The Deputy CM took note of the parents’ concerns and emphasized that student welfare is a top priority. Acting on the feedback, he introduced a revised three-tier fare structure, replacing the earlier two-slab system.

Previously, the fare was set at ₹1800 for distances up to 5 kilometers, and ₹2500 for distances beyond 5 kilometers. Under the new system:

• For up to 6 kilometers, the fare has been reduced to ₹1200, a cut of ₹600 from the earlier rate.

• For distances between 6 to 12 kilometers, the fare is now ₹1800, reduced by ₹700.

• For distances exceeding 12 kilometers, the fare has been fixed at ₹2000.

Agnihotri also announced that the student bus pass application process will soon be made available online, easing the burden on parents and reducing the need for physical visits to transport offices.

“This decision reflects the government’s commitment to public welfare. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) aims to serve with a spirit of social responsibility,” said the Deputy CM.

Parents welcomed the move and expressed their gratitude to the Deputy CM for his timely and empathetic intervention.

Present at the meeting were Dr. Nipun Jindal, Managing Director of HRTC, senior transport officials, and a large number of parents from various private schools in the city.