HRTC’s New ‘Dhaba Policy’ to Give Passengers Cleaner Halts, Boost Revenue
Shimla – The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has rolled out a new policy to fix the way its buses halt at roadside Dhabas and eateries, aiming for cleaner stops, better passenger facilities, and more transparency in operations.
Until now, long-distance and intra-state bus halts were decided on an ad-hoc basis, often leading to uneven passenger experiences. Under the new rules, Dhabas will be selected, inspected, and reviewed regularly by a designated committee, with strict standards for hygiene, clean toilets, safe drinking water, comfortable seating, proper parking, and easy accessibility.
The policy also introduces a spacing rule — any new empanelled Dhaba must be at least 25 km away from an existing HRTC-approved halt.
Non-compliant eateries face penalties, and repeat offenders will be blacklisted. Passengers will be able to give feedback through a helpline, and surprise inspections will keep services in check.
“We want every halt on our routes to meet the same high standard — safe, clean, and passenger-friendly. This is not just about better service, it’s also about accountability and healthy competition,” said director transport D.S. Negi.
To boost non-operational revenue, annual empanelment and haltage fees have been hiked. HRTC has also increased mechanical inspection fees, driving test charges, and other service rates as part of wider efforts to strengthen its finances.
Officials say the move will create healthy competition among food outlets to maintain quality, while passengers can expect cleaner, safer, and more reliable halts on their journeys.
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