Vishal Rana, Hamirpur

The financial health of Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) is on the verge of a significant downturn. The corporation, which relies on government grants-in-aid to pay salaries and pensions to its employees, is now facing an alarming shortfall. This year, the government has allocated only ₹367 crore in grants, a sharp decline from the annual ₹720 crore that HRTC used to receive. Out of this, ₹312 crore has already been disbursed, leaving a mere ₹55 crore, which will be the last installment for the year.

As per sources, the situation is dire—if salaries are paid to employees, pensioners may have to go without their pensions. Although the government has the option to sanction additional grants, the current scenario offers no such reassurance.

Despite the transport corporation’s efforts to boost its revenue, with a monthly increase of ₹10-15 crore, these measures are insufficient to address the growing financial crisis. HRTC recently raised the rates for school bus passes and discounted travel cards, and even considered discontinuing services for police personnel. However, no final decision has been made, and the issue is expected to be revisited by the state cabinet, which could provide a much-needed financial boost to the corporation.

The Road Ahead:
HRTC has proposed several significant measures to the government, yet no substantial progress has been made. The corporation’s worsening financial condition is further exacerbated by a lack of full support from the government. If the grants-in-aid are not increased, HRTC may soon find itself unable to pay its employees, leading to an even more severe crisis.

Adding to the woes, HRTC has failed to pay its drivers and conductors for 50 months of night overtime. Arrears and DA (Dearness Allowance) remain unpaid as well. With the upcoming Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) meeting, employees are likely to strategize and prepare for protests if their demands are not met.

As the financial turmoil deepens, HRTC finds itself at a crossroads. The corporation’s future hinges on decisive action from the government and the implementation of proposed reforms. Without swift intervention, the situation could spiral out of control, affecting thousands of employees and pensioners alike. The time for tough decisions is now—HRTC must act to safeguard its workforce and sustain its operations amidst these turbulent times.