Shimla, October 11 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first state in the country to fully adopt electric vehicles under the “Green Himachal, Clean Himachal” initiative. The announcement was made during the national “Egli Camp” held in Delhi, where mayors and commissioners from across India participated last evening.
Shimla Mayor Surendra Chauhan and Municipal Commissioner Bhupendra Atri represented the state at the camp, which was also attended by the union Urban Development Minister. The event saw extensive discussions on Himachal’s pioneering green initiatives and sustainable transportation model.
Mayor Chauhan informed that the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has already converted 110 vehicles to electric mode, with a plan to introduce 300 more electric buses in the next phase.
The Shimla Municipal Corporation has also purchased two electric vehicles and plans to add ten more soon. The state aims to make all vehicles electric in the coming years, marking a significant step toward reducing air pollution and protecting the environment.
Speaking about recent natural calamities, particularly in Mandi district, Chauhan expressed concern over the loss of ancestral lands and homes situated near rivers and streams. He emphasized the need for special budget allocations for hilly areas, where construction and rehabilitation costs are higher due to challenging terrain.
Highlighting the state’s progress in afforestation, he said that the number of trees in Himachal’s forests is rising every year, with around 30 percent of newly planted trees successfully growing.
The Shimla Municipal Corporation alone plants 6,000 to 8,000 trees annually.
Despite these efforts, the state has not been receiving carbon fees. Mayor Chauhan urged the central government to provide special budgetary support and carbon incentives, stating that a proposal is being prepared for submission soon.
