Shimla, September 5: Himachal Pradesh is taking a major step toward a greener transport system with the development of electric bus charging stations at 46 locations across the state, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri announced on Thursday.
Speaking to reporters, Agnihotri said, “A total of 90 potential sites were surveyed out of which 46 locations have been finalised. On a priority basis, charging stations will be set up at 34 locations.” The sites include key towns and transport hubs such as Shimla Local, Theog Bus Stand, Nurpur, Fatehpur, Dharamshala, Palampur, Baijnath, Hamirpur and its bus stand, Nadaun Bus Stand and new Electric Depot Nadaun, Una, Bangana, Amb, Bilaspur, Ghumarwin, Sundernagar, Jogindernagar, Mandi, Arki, Parwanoo, Nalagarh, Nahan, Paonta Sahib, Shree Renukaji, Kullu, Manali, Chamba, Bharmour, Dalhousie, Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, Reckong Peo, and Keylong.
Agnihotri noted that the state government has sanctioned a budget of ₹20 crore for the project, while additional financial support of ₹110.95 crore has been provided by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
“This initiative positions Himachal as a frontrunner in e-mobility among Indian states,” Agnihotri said. “Through this project, we are not only promoting environmental sustainability but also creating opportunities for employment and infrastructure development.”
According to the deputy chief minister, the installation of electrical transformers for the charging stations will be handled by Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited, while civil construction work will be managed by Himachal Pradesh Bus Stands Management and Development Authority (HP BSM&DA). The project will be rolled out in two phases to ensure all infrastructure is ready before the arrival of the first fleet of 327 electric buses.
Agnihotri added, “This project will make the state’s transport system more environment-friendly while strengthening public transportation services in both urban and rural areas.” He emphasised that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of sustainable mobility and improved connectivity across Himachal Pradesh.
