HRTC adds 155 extra buses to manage Diwali travel rush in Himachal Pradesh

In a recent update, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has introduced 155 extra buses to manage the increased travel demand for Diwali. Starting from Tuesday, this service aims to offer a smoother and more comfortable travel experience during the festive season. Tickets for these buses are available online, allowing travelers to secure seats in advance and avoid last-minute rushes.

Additional services

The primary focus of HRTC's additional services is the route between Delhi and various destinations in Himachal Pradesh, known to experience heavy traffic during Diwali. As part of this effort, HRTC will deploy 60 extra buses from Delhi on October 30, serving key districts like Palampur, Baijnath, Jogendranagar, Pathankot, and Dharamshala. Both standard and luxury buses will be available for routes to Dharamshala, offering passengers a choice of comfort levels.
Route

From Chandigarh, HRTC will run 70 extra buses on October 29 and 30, covering multiple destinations within Himachal Pradesh. On the first day, two buses each will serve areas like Chamba and Dharamshala. On October 30, four additional buses are planned for Bilaspur to ensure that travelers have ample options for reaching their homes or visiting loved ones during the holiday. Additionally, the town of Baddi will benefit from 25 extra buses on both days, providing enhanced travel convenience in that region.

Regular buses

These additional services are scheduled to run outside of HRTC’s regular bus schedules, alleviating pressure on usual routes and easing travel for the Diwali rush. By offering these extra options, HRTC aims to make holiday travel not only more efficient but also safer for all passengers.

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Beyond increasing bus services, HRTC has also recently adjusted its fare structure, impacting both passenger fares and luggage charges. Some fares may see significant increases, with a few prices potentially doubling. In another recent development, a proposed "toilet tax" became a political issue in Himachal Pradesh, prompting the Chief Minister to address concerns raised by the BJP and provide clarification.


As the festive season draws near, HRTC's addition of 155 buses underscores its commitment to ensuring that people can travel conveniently to celebrate Diwali with their families. This initiative highlights the vital role of public transportation in facilitating festive gatherings and maintaining connections between people during special times like Diwali. Through these efforts, HRTC plays a crucial role in supporting the spirit of celebration and togetherness in the region.