Himachal CM Sukhu Launches National Common Mobility Card for Cashless Travel
On Thursday, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu introduced a new National Common Mobility Card for the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC). This card allows for cashless travel across various public transport systems in India, offering multiple payment options.
The HRTC already provides cashless payment options through UPI, debit, and credit cards in state-run buses. The new card aims to promote cashless travel among commuters and enhance user convenience.
Key Features:
- Interoperable with other public transport systems like the Delhi Metro, Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), Haryana Roadways, and Mumbai’s BEST buses.
- Functions without internet, making it ideal for remote regions with limited connectivity.
- Requires a one-time issuance fee of Rs 100, with top-ups available online and at bus counters.
Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted that the HRTC is the first State Transport Undertaking (STU) in India to introduce such a facility. He emphasized that this initiative would streamline travel and benefit the people of Himachal Pradesh by integrating technology into HRTC’s operations.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, and other dignitaries were present at the launch event.
Doubts Revealed
Himachal Pradesh -: Himachal Pradesh is a state in northern India, known for its beautiful mountains and cool weather.
Chief Minister -: A Chief Minister is the head of the government in an Indian state, similar to a principal in a school but for the whole state.
Sukhvinder Sukhu -: Sukhvinder Sukhu is the current Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, responsible for making important decisions for the state.
National Common Mobility Card -: The National Common Mobility Card is a special card that lets you travel on buses, trains, and other public transport without using cash.
Cashless travel -: Cashless travel means you don’t need to use money notes or coins to pay for your travel; you can use a card or digital payment instead.
Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) -: HRTC is a government-run bus service in Himachal Pradesh that helps people travel within the state.
Delhi Metro -: The Delhi Metro is a fast train system in Delhi, the capital city of India, that helps people travel quickly across the city.
Mumbai’s BEST buses -: BEST buses are public buses in Mumbai, a big city in India, that help people travel around the city.
One-time fee -: A one-time fee is a payment you make just once, not every time you use something.
Topped up -: Topped up means adding more money to your card so you can keep using it for travel.