Himachal Deputy CM Agnihotri launches HRTC’s cashless bus ticketing service in Shimla, 2 other districts; 4% DA for corporation staff
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TNR Desk
Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri announced on Thursday (March 7, 2024) the immediate release of 4 per cent dearness allowance (DA) for employees of the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC).
Instructing the corporation’s managing director to implement the decision before the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha elections took effect, Agnihotri made the announcement while inaugurating various services at the Old Bus Stand in Shimla.
During the inauguration of the cashless ticketing system, Agnihotri disclosed that initially, this facility would be available in three districts of Shimla, Hamirpur and Una with plans to expand it statewide.
An agreement between the HRTC and the State Bank of India has facilitated this new payment option, enabling passengers to purchase tickets via credit card, debit card or UPI. This initiative aims to alleviate the inconvenience of carrying change and minimise disputes between passengers and conductors.
A highlight of the event was the launch of a shuttle bus service from the Old Bus Stand in Shimla to Jubbarhatti airport.
Agnihotri personally purchased a bus ticket using the cashless system and boarded an electric bus to the Secretariat. Operated in collaboration with the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, the shuttle service will charge passengers Rs 200 per ride, with scheduled departures from Old Bus Stand Shimla to Jubbarhatti Airport and vice versa.
Furthermore, Agnihotri introduced an online bus pass facility for college students, streamlining the application process and eliminating the need for physical queues. After online application and verification by their institutions, students will receive their passes digitally, accessible via their mobile phones, facilitating hassle-free travel.
In a bid to enhance connectivity, Agnihotri announced the forthcoming commencement of a bus service from Una and Shimla to Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh.
huThe HRTC has secured permits for three buses, with one each from Una and Shimla to Ayodhya, in addition to a service from Hamirpur. Further expansion of these services will depend on public response.
