The Punjab Roadways Transport Corporation (PRTC) is all set to achieve a significant milestone with the development of its first sub-depot at Village Daula in Gidderbaha for enhancing public transportation infrastructure. Divulging further details, Transport Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar, on Tuesday, said that in line with the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government's commitment to further improving transportation accessibility, this project will be completed and operationalizated by January 31, 2025 with the estimated cost of Rs.3.36 crores.
He said that this project will not only address the infrastructural needs but also respond directly to the longstanding demands of local people. S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said that in addition to this, the Old Bus Stand at Patiala has been revitalized, with bus services now connecting to nearby towns within a 30-kilometer radius, including Cheeka, Samana, Nabha, Rajpura, Ghanaur and Pehowa.
The Cabinet Minister said that the Transport Department is further expanding its fleet and creating economic opportunities through the Kilometer (KM) Scheme. A total of 85 new buses will be introduced, with Letter of Intents (LoIs) already issued to 81 individuals, which is fulfilling state government's commitment to generating self-employment and empowering local entrepreneurs.
In a progressive move towards sustainable infrastructure, PRTC is finalizing a comprehensive solar plant installation project, said the Transport Minister, adding that the ambitious plan includes setting up solar facilities at the Head Office, all depots and bus stands.
With a proposed 775 KW solar installation estimated at Rs.2.87 crores, the project is expected to generate annual electricity cost savings of approximately Rs.97 lakh, with a projected payback period of less than three years, he added.