Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu launched a new National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) for the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) on Thursday. This innovative card enables cashless travel on various public transportation systems nationwide, offering multiple payment options for convenience.
The HRTC already provides cashless payment options in its state-run buses through UPI, debit cards, and credit cards.
According to a press release, “To promote cashless travel among commuters, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched a new National Common Mobility Card of the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) here today. The card allows cashless travel in various public transports across the country and offers multiple payment options enabling users to access services across the country without cash. The HRTC is already offering cashless payment options through UPI, debit and credit cards in the state-run buses.”
Sukhu announced that the HRTC was the first State Transport Undertaking (STU) in India to offer this innovative service. “This new initiative will be a milestone for Himachal Pradesh’s public transport, aiming to streamline travel and enhance user convenience across various transit systems nationwide,” he said.
The card’s interoperability means it can be used on other public transport systems, including the Delhi Metro, DTC, Haryana Roadways, and Mumbai’s BEST buses. People who use these networks can also use their cards on HRTC buses, Sukhu said.
“This marks a major step towards a fully cashless travel system, offering greater convenience for passengers, even in regions with limited internet access. The state government is committed to transforming the HRTC into a self-sustaining organization by integrating technology into its operations. Strengthening the HRTC will ultimately benefit the people of the State,” said CM Sukhu.
He highlighted that the card works without an internet connection, making it ideal for remote areas with limited connectivity. The card comes with a one-time issuance fee of Rs 100, and users can top it up either online or through cash payments at any bus counter. He also praised the HRTC for launching the card within six months, ahead of many other states that have either implemented or are still planning similar initiatives.