In what is being hailed as a major administrative victory, the “Lifeline of Haryana”—the state roadways—has finally steered out of a long-standing financial deficit.
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Breaking the 5-Year Jinx: Since 2020, Haryana Roadways had been grappling with mounting losses due to rising fuel costs, aging infrastructure, and heavy pension liabilities. However, the latest quarterly audit shows the department has entered the “Profit Zone.”
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The Kilometre Scheme Advantage: The Transport Minister explained that the hybrid model (Kilometre Scheme) allowed the government to provide services on low-occupancy routes without the burden of buying new buses or hiring permanent drivers for every single unit. “By paying private operators a fixed rate per kilometre, we have ensured better service frequency and reduced our operational losses by nearly 25%,” the Minister said.
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Leakage Control & Digitalization: Apart from the new scheme, the introduction of the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) and electronic ticketing machines (ETMs) has plugged revenue leakages. Real-time tracking has also helped in optimizing routes, ensuring that buses are where the passengers are.
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Fuel Efficiency Measures: The induction of newer, BS-VI compliant buses and a pilot project of electric buses in the NCR region have further helped in cutting down the massive fuel bill of the department.
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Incentives for Staff: Following the profit announcement, the Minister hinted at a performance-based bonus for the staff and drivers who maintained high safety and punctuality standards throughout the year.
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Future Outlook: With a healthy balance sheet, the department is now planning to modernize 10 major bus stands into “Airport-like” facilities with shopping complexes and better waiting lounges.
