HRTC launches online travel pass system

The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) today launched four new IT-based systems, including an online travel pass system, along with other measures to enhance operational efficiency, passenger convenience, safety measures and revenue generation.

The decisions were taken at a meeting of the Board of Directors of the HRTC and the Bus Stand Management and Development Authority held here under the chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri. Four new IT-based systems developed in collaboration with the Department of Digital Technologies and Governance were launched. These included an online travel pass system, enabling school and college students, government employees and traders to apply online for concessional passes, pay fees digitally and receive RFID-based smart cards.

He said, “To attract more tourists and increase revenue, tourist day circuits will be introduced connecting major religious and tourist spots around Shimla.” A dhaba policy would also be put in place to empanel eateries along the bus routes with focus on hygiene and commuter convenience, he added.

The board approved the launch of the ‘Him Bus Plus’ scheme that integrates identity management with cashless payments. Under the scheme, commuters would receive a five per cent discount on fares for all HRTC buses, including Volvo buses.

Agnihotri said that a GPS-based tracking system had been initiated for 82 buses in Shimla, which would later be extended to the entire fleet of HRTC buses. Also, Rs 7 crore would be spent on the repair and maintenance of various bus stands and the installation of CCTV cameras at all bus terminals.