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After severe floods, Himachal Pradesh is working hard to become a green and clean state. The government has started several projects for protecting the environment and promoting sustainable living.
The floods caused a lot of damage, reminding everyone of the need to act on climate change. So, the government of Himachal Pradesh has decided to focus on restoring the environment and using sustainable practices.
One major step is encouraging the use of renewable energy. The government will pay people 20,000 rupees per month if they use their land to set up solar power plants. This plan will help increase clean energy production and lessen the state’s dependence on fossil fuels.
Himachal bans petrol, diesel vehicles
Starting January 1, 2024, the Himachal Pradesh government has implemented two significant changes. Firstly, all government offices have been prohibited from purchasing petrol and diesel vehicles.
These initiatives aim to transform Himachal into a clean and green energy state by March 31, 2026.
The government will now only purchase electric vehicles. To encourage the use of e-vehicles, six highways will be developed as green corridors. Additionally, a 50% subsidy will be provided on the purchase of electric vehicles in Himachal.
Himachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister, Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, stated that the government’s vision for electric vehicles is clear and marks a significant step towards systemic change.
"Sukhu stated his government promotes e-vehicles in Himachal Pradesh significantly," he said. He continued stating that the transport department took the lead and became the first to replace their official vehicle fleet with e-vehicles. He also added that the other departments intend to follow suit in a phased manner.
Sukhu said that this shift demonstrates his government's commitment to preserving the environment. As he detailed other initiatives, he explained that they have granted permission for e-taxies to operate on a contract basis to fulfill the departments' vehicle requirements.
Himachal promotes e-vehicles, bans petrol/diesel
The promotion of e-vehicles has led to over 3,000 e-vehicles in Himachal, making it the first state to ban the purchase of petrol and diesel vehicles in government departments.
To meet vehicle demands in government departments, a plan has been prepared to contract e-taxis. Under the Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Startup Scheme, the state’s youth will receive a 50% subsidy to purchase e-taxis. These vehicles will then be deployed in government departments, providing employment opportunities for the youth.
Furthermore, all diesel buses of the Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation will gradually be converted into e-buses. E-buses will also be introduced on long routes in Himachal, with Type 1, 2, and 3 e-buses being added to the fleet in phases.
Government officials have recently met with e-bus manufacturers to request vehicles suitable for Himachal’s geographical conditions. Work has also begun on establishing e-vehicle charging stations across the state.
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