SHIMLA/MANDI/DHARAMSHALA: There was a time when  there were no private cars, no private trucks, and no private buses.

Back then, the only lifeline connecting the remote villages with the bustling district headquarters and Shimla’s State Capital were the unmistakable yellow-bonneted PWD trucks and the humble HRTC buses.

They used to  chug along winding roads with a full-throttle hum.

These buses weren’t just vehicles; they were the heartbeat of the mountains, bridging people, dreams, and distant places.

Even HP's first founder  CM Dr YS Parmar, ministers and MLAs once used to travel at the front seat of the HRTC buses reserved for them. Even SDMs and DCs, at times,  used to travel at the front seat. 

It is now another matter they including top babudom crave for Mercs, Rovers and top-end SUVs.  Time has changed so fast and so drastically, so should be HRTC. 

The old HRTC buses were more than just a mode of transport—they were companions of the hill folk.

With limited buses running from villages to towns, people would race to grab a seat, often carrying not just their bags but also construction materials to far-flung areas.

There wasn’t much luxury, but there was a sense of belonging—a trust that the bus, no matter how rickety, would get you to your destination. 

Fast forward to today, HRTC has evolved from those rickety rides to a fleet of 3,350 buses, with over 12,000 dedicated employees.

From quaint beginnings, it’s now a massive lifeline, connecting every nook and cranny of the state.

And as it marks its glorious 50 years, we look back at this journey of trust, dedication, and resilience.

Transport Minister Mukesh Agnihotri and the HRTC Managing Director Rohan Chand Thakur inaugurated a special museum to commemorate this golden milestone.

But, beyond the exhibits and paintings, the real legacy lies in the memories of those who have traveled with HRTC.

The chai or lunch breaks with fellow passengers at the roadside dhabas.

We remember the friendly banter with the bus conductor. The  familiar thrum of the engine as it tackled every curve and cliff on the rough potholed roads.

From its early days when it even ferried cement and rods to build the state's infrastructure, HRTC buses have always been more than just transport.

They’ve carried school kids, the elderly, women, and patients, all at subsidized rates, staying true to the service-first philosophy.

And let’s not forget those long rides from Leh to Delhi—HRTC proudly operates on the highest and longest route in the country.

Even in the remotest areas like Kaza and Dodra Kuar,  Kilar, Bharmour, Kupvi,  Keylong, the wheels never stopped turning.

The dedication of HRTC’s staff is no small feat.

Day and night, in every corner of the state, these unsung heroes—drivers, conductors, and mechanics—have kept the wheels rolling. said Kshemender Gupta, HRTC employee leader.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu himself knows this legacy too well, as his father was once part of this HRTC family.

Many others, like IPS officer Shalini Agnihotri, have also risen from HRTC homes, showing that this corporation not only serves the public but also nurtures future leaders.

But the journey hasn’t been without its challenges.

In a world that demands more, HRTC has been pushed to do better.

The introduction of electric buses in places like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala  proves that HP state government is  committed  to  provide a cleaner, greener transport to people of Himachal.

Every year, new Volvo buses are added, making the journey more comfortable, even to remote areas like Tapri in Kinnaur.

Yet, with the rising costs of maintaining services, especially in non-profitable routes, HRTC faces its toughest challenge yet—balancing public service with financial sustainability.

But as always, where there’s a will, there’s a way.

With the government, management, and employees working hand in hand, the corporation is determined to continue serving the people with the same spirit that has driven it for 50 years, asserts  Mukesh Agnihotri.

As HRTC steps into its golden jubilee, it’s not just about the buses or the employees—it’s about the people of Himachal.

The trust and bond between HRTC and the public is unshakable. HRTC   has fund and revenue issues. But then there is always a light at the other side of the tunnel. 

Here’s to 50 years of journeys, big and small, and many more miles to go!