Shimla: Even as the state government awaits the court approval for plying electric buses between Manali-Rohtang Pass, the Transport Department has decided to run 50 battery-operated electric vans in the state.

Shimla: Even as the state government awaits the court approval for plying electric buses between Manali-Rohtang Pass, the Transport Department has decided to run 50 battery-operated electric vans in the state.

Addressing a press conference here today, Transport and Civil Supplies Minister GS Bali said the endeavour of the HRTC was to prevent pollution by plying eco-friendly buses.

“While the court nod is awaited to launch electric buses, we will launch the eight-seater electric vans within two months to be provided by Mahindra and Mahindra,” he said. Each of these vans to be plied in Shimla, Dharamsala and other parts would cost Rs 10 to 12 lakh.Bali also said the Board of Directors of the HRTC at its meeting decided to provide air-conditioned waiting rooms separately for men and women, along with play areas, at bus stands.

“We have also decided to install close-circuit cameras at all bus stands and in the first phase, bus stands in Shimla, Manali, Mandi, Nagrota and Palampur will be covered,” he said. He added that this move was specifically aimed at ensuring safety of women.