Demand for Kotli Bus Stand to be Upgraded to Sub-Depot for Improved Services and Economic Growth.
Shimla:
In a recent move aimed at improving transportation and economic opportunities in the region, Rajesh Kapoor, President of the Panna Lal Raksha Memorial Trust, has raised a demand to upgrade the existing Kotli Bus Stand to a full-fledged sub-depot under the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC). Kapoor, who previously conducted a live broadcast on Facebook highlighting the need for this upgrade, has now submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, through the SDM of Kotli.
The proposed sub-depot is expected to bring several benefits to the local community, especially for the residents of Tungal and surrounding areas. Here are the key advantages:
1. Improved Transportation Services: According to the current information, 53 HRTC routes pass through Kotli, including 15 local routes. The establishment of a sub-depot would enhance these services, making travel more convenient for locals and contributing to a better public transportation system.
2. Economic Growth: The opening of the sub-depot would generate local employment opportunities in various sectors such as driving, conducting, and support services. Additionally, nearby businesses like hotels, dhabas, and shops are likely to benefit, stimulating local economic growth.
3. Tourism Boost: Kotli, located in Himachal Pradesh, is a prominent tourist destination. A sub-depot would make it easier for tourists to access popular attractions, helping to promote tourism in the region.
4. Emergency Services: With a sub-depot, emergency situations could be handled more efficiently, as buses would be available more quickly in case of breakdowns or other issues. This would reduce delays and ensure faster assistance in times of crisis.
5. Environmental Benefits: The initiative is expected to reduce the number of private vehicles on the roads, which in turn would help reduce pollution and traffic congestion.
Kapoor further emphasized that the local community, especially truckers and transport workers, would greatly benefit from the facility. Moreover, long-distance routes like Kotli-Katra, Kotli-Shimla, and Kotli-Haridwar could be better managed, easing travel for defense personnel and others.
The establishment of a sub-depot at Kotli would not place an additional financial burden on the government, as the existing bus stand infrastructure can be utilized effectively, Kapoor concluded.