Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has launched the 'Him Bus Plus' scheme, marking a significant step towards modernizing the state's transport system. The initiative integrates identity management with cashless payments and offers various fare discounts to commuters traveling on Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses.
Under the 'Him Bus Plus' scheme, commuters can avail a 5% discount on fares for all HRTC buses, including Volvo services. In addition to this, a loyalty program will provide cashback benefits based on monthly travel. To attract more passengers, particularly tourists, the fare for Super Luxury Buses will be reduced by 15%, and cardholders can avail of up to a 20% discount along with loyalty rewards.
The 'Him Bus Plus' scheme aims to modernize the state's transport system by implementing identity management and cashless payments for HRTC buses. The new IT systems will facilitate online travel passes, a digital bus inspection schedule, and a GPS-based bus tracking system to improve operational efficiency.
During the launch, the Deputy CM also introduced four new IT-based systems developed by HRTC in collaboration with the Department of Digital Technologies and Governance (DDTG). These include 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 radio frequency identification (RFID)-based smart cards. A digital bus inspection scheduling system was also introduced to improve monitoring of staff performance and ensure timely checks, with schedules now being transmitted via mobile SMS. A global positioning system (GPS)-based bus tracking system was initiated for 82 buses in Shimla, which would later be extended to the entire fleet of HRTC buses to ensure better real-time monitoring. Additionally, a new platform, 'Him Access HRTC system' was launched, allowing over 9,000 employees to access their personal and salary details online.
In addition to the 'Him Bus Plus' scheme and the new IT-based systems, the Himachal Pradesh government is also focusing on infrastructure enhancements to improve the overall commuting experience. This includes allocating Rs 7 crore for the repair and maintenance of bus stands across the state and installing CCTV cameras at all bus terminals to enhance public safety. A modern bus stand facility will also be constructed at Mandi Bharari in Bilaspur district to cater to increasing commuter traffic. Directions have also been issued to expedite the setting up of e-charging stations at bus stands and workshops to support the arrival of electric buses in the state fleet.
To attract more tourists and increase revenue, the Deputy CM announced that 'Tourist Day Circuits' would be introduced, connecting major religious and tourist spots around Shimla. The board also approved new revenue measures such as implementing an advertisement policy on HRTC tickets, website and app and piloting the operation of retail fuel outlets at 2-3 locations using HRTC's own fuel pumps. A Dhaba policy would also be put in place to empanel eateries along bus routes with a focus on hygiene and commuter convenience.
Furthermore, the board approved changing the uniform color of HRTC staff from grey to khaki, as per demands from employee unions. Due to delays in the tendering process, it was decided to provide a cash allowance in place of one uniform set and to complete the procurement process within a month. It was further decided to establish Automated Testing Stations under PPP mode to ensure thorough checking of HRTC buses and to generate additional income for the Corporation.
