Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Soon after taking charge as the Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat, Harsh Sanghvi wasted no time in getting down to work. On his very first day in office, he reviewed ongoing departmental activities and held a series of meetings with senior officials from various departments under his charge. His first major decision came during a meeting with the top officers of the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC), where he announced a significant benefit for the employees of the corporation.
₹10,000 Festival Advance for Over 36,000 GSRTC Employees
In a move that reflects his commitment to employee welfare, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi announced that all GSRTC employees will now receive a ₹10,000 festival advance. Earlier, only fixed-salary employees were eligible for a festival advance of up to ₹5,000. Under this new decision, every GSRTC employee — over 36,000 in total — will receive the enhanced benefit ahead of the festive season.
This financial support, described as a ‘festival pre-advance’, aims to help employees and their families celebrate Diwali with greater joy and comfort. The decision has been welcomed widely as it brings immediate relief to thousands of households associated with the state’s transport services.
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Field Visit to Geeta Mandir Bus Station
Later in the evening, Harsh Sanghvi personally visited Ahmedabad’s Geeta Mandir Bus Station at around 7:30 PM to review preparations for the special Diwali bus operations. His visit was aimed at ensuring smooth monitoring of the additional bus services being deployed during the festive rush. Officials said that the Deputy CM interacted with ground staff and inspected the arrangements to maintain efficiency and punctuality in public transport.
Cleanliness and Water Conservation Campaign Across RTOs and Bus Stations
Apart from the financial announcement, Harsh Sanghvi also introduced a new statewide initiative focused on cleanliness and water conservation. The campaign will be conducted across all RTO offices and ST bus stations from October 26 to 30.
Under this special drive, authorities will repair leaking taps, promote awareness about water conservation, and carry out cleanliness activities at transport facilities. The objective is to enhance public awareness about maintaining hygiene and saving water within Gujarat’s public transport infrastructure.
Strengthening Public Service and Employee Morale
By launching both welfare and awareness campaigns immediately after assuming office, Harsh Sanghvi has set a proactive example of leadership. His decisions not only aim to boost employee morale but also to strengthen the state’s transport network for citizens.
This early action signals his intent to bring efficiency, accountability, and a people-first approach to governance — a message that resonates strongly among government employees and the general public alike.