In the wake of stir called by private transport operators, and anticipating the woes of commuters and tourists, Himachal Transport Minister G.S Bali on Thursday appealed to private transporters to withdraw their call and promised consideration of their demands.
“Genuine and justified demands of private bus operators will be considered by the department but they have to call back their announced stir of August 26” said State transport minister, G.S Bali in a hurriedly convened press briefing at Vidhan Sabha premises.
“Being a minister I have to look into the interest of the State, as well as of the passengers and tourist visiting the State “said Bali adding that the state has already given too much to private bus operators in the State. He said tax on the private carriers was very less in comparison to other state.
Himachal Pradesh in the absence of rail and air network largely depends on road transport and Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has a fleet of 2150 buses while private operators given permits run around 3000 vehicles.
“If they still go ahead with the stir, than Government will be forced to take its own call, “cautioned Bali. Among the charter of demands submitted, raising the minimum fare from Rs 2 to Rs 5 is the prominent demand of the private bus operators.