Arki (Solan)
A diesel pump installed by Himachal Road Transport Corporation at the Arki sub-depot has remained non-functional for the past six months, raising concerns as machinery worth lakhs of rupees risks turning into scrap.
According to reports, around 25–30 buses from the HRTC depots of Shimla, Solan, Bilaspur, Parwanoo and Nalagarh operate daily in the Arki region. Due to the non-operational diesel pump, buses often face difficulties in getting fuel on time.
Officials said that running a diesel pump requires completion of several formalities, including obtaining the necessary licence. Authorities have assured that the pending procedures are being completed and the pump is likely to be made operational within about two weeks.
Currently, buses operating in the area consume nearly 1,600 litres of diesel around 7–8 times a month. Fueling buses from other locations not only causes inconvenience but also increases the risk of accidents and fuel wastage during transportation.
Local residents have expressed concern that if the pump had been installed properly, it should have been made functional by now. They have urged the authorities to start the facility soon so that the costly machinery does not go to waste and transport services operate smoothly.
