HRTC Green Cards now available in Himachal markets like mobile phone SIMs

MANDI: In a move aimed at boosting revenue and improving public transport services, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced that Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) Green Cards will now be available for sale in local shops, similar to mobile phone SIM cards.

The decision is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the accessibility of public transport services while generating additional income for the HRTC. The HRTC Green Card is a discount card that allows the holder a 25% discount on fares within 50 km of the card’s issue location or the holder’s chosen location.

Boosting Green Card sales

Under the guidance of Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, the HRTC has taken significant steps to make Green Cards more widely available. Any shopkeeper or authorised individual can now sell Green Cards, acting as an HRTC agent. The move allows customers to purchase Green Cards from various local stores, increasing convenience and access.

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According to the HRTC, shopkeepers and authorised sellers will receive a commission of Rs for each Green Card sold. Conductors on HRTC buses are also authorised to sell Green Cards and will receive the same commission. There is no limit on the number of Green Cards that can be purchased by shopkeepers or individuals for resale.

Expanding availability across state

To ensure widespread availability, HRTC depots across the state, including the Karsog Bus Depot, have been stocked with a sufficient number of Green Cards. HRTC Regional Manager Humes Kumar said that any shopkeeper or individual could obtain Green Cards for sale, similar to mobile SIM cards, for a commission. The initiative aims to increase HRTC’s revenue and provide additional employment opportunities for those looking to supplement their income.

Innovative steps to enhance public transport

The state government has been actively working to make HRTC self-sufficient by implementing various innovative measures. In addition to promoting Green Card sales, the government has introduced a cashless online fare payment system on all HRTC buses, encouraging passengers to adopt digital payment methods. This move is expected to improve the efficiency of fare collection and reduce cash handling by conductors.

Furthermore, the state is promoting the use of electric buses to reduce the environmental impact of public transport and enhance sustainability.

Benefits for passengers, HRTC

The decision to expand the availability of Green Cards is expected to benefit both passengers and HRTC. By making Green Cards more accessible, the government aims to improve the convenience of public transport for residents, particularly in remote and rural areas. Additionally, the initiative is anticipated to boost HRTC’s revenue, helping the corporation overcome financial challenges and continue providing essential services to the people of Himachal Pradesh.

As the state government continues to innovate and adapt to the needs of its citizens, these measures are a step towards a more efficient and sustainable public transport system.