Dy CM Mukesh Agnihotri raises key issues at Transport Minister's National meeting

Shimla Jan 07

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri participated in the national-level meeting of Transport Ministers and 42nd meeting of Transport Development Council held under the chairmanship of Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari today at New Delhi.

During the meeting, Shri Agnihotri raised several important issues concerning the transport sector in Himachal Pradesh and sought the central government’s support in addressing them. He raised the issue of financial burden of the Vehicle Scrapping Policy as Himachal faces significant challenges due to its topographical location and sparse vehicle population, making the assembly of vehicles for scrapping both costly and cumbersome. Shri Agnihotri requested an extension of the deadline for availing the Special Central Assistance (SCA) for capital investment until March 31, 2025 and also proposed that the scrapping incentives be provided as grants instead of loans to ease the financial strain on the state.

He highlighted that Himachal Pradesh would require to scrap over 7,000 government vehicles which would impact the functioning of key state departments. Therefore, a more favourable financial assistance structure was requested to ensure the smooth implementation of the scrapping policy. Nitin Gadkari assured that he was aware of the situation and the interests of Hilly States along-with Union territories would be protected.

Mukesh Agnihotri urged the Central Union Minister to extend the date for seeking incentive under ATS and scrapping of vehicles from 31 January to 31 March. The Union Minister took cognizance of the matter and said that the matter was under consideration.

The Deputy Chief Minister also discussed the challenges posed by the All India Tourist Permit (AITP) buses operating within Himachal Pradesh. These AITP buses are operating in the state as stage carriage buses though having contract carriage permit (AITP). There is huge difference in quantum of taxes between AITP and stage carriage.