Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has launched the Him Bus Card system from today, making it mandatory for eligible passengers to obtain the card to avail free and concessional travel benefits on HRTC buses. The radio frequency-based card will cost Rs 236 as a one-time fee, which includes Rs 200 for the card plus GST, covering the first year’s concession.
From the second year onwards, cardholders will need to pay an annual renewal fee of Rs 150 plus GST. In case of changes in source, destination, category, or designation, a fee of Rs 50 plus GST will be charged. If the card is lost or damaged, a new card will be issued for Rs 200 plus GST, valid for one year with annual renewal required thereafter. Those opting for postal delivery will have to pay an additional Rs 56 (including GST).
HRTC Managing Director Dr. Nipun Jindal stated that the system has been implemented following state government directives to make travel facilities transparent, secure, and accessible. The digital system will free beneficiaries from paperwork and provide a smart transport system. The corporation is also preparing to issue Him Bus Plus cards soon for those who already have Yellow Card, Green Card, Smart Card, or other concessional cards.
Eligible categories required to obtain the card include students of government schools (up to 10+2), colleges, private and government educational institutions; state and central government employees; corporation and board employees; police personnel (constable to inspector); jail department officials (warder to assistant superintendent); former MLAs and MPs; freedom fighters and their spouses; state and district level accredited journalists; gallantry award winners; war widows; specially-abled persons; widows of deceased or retired HRTC employees; secretariat security personnel; women; students of central universities and Kendriya Vidyalayas; leprosy patients; state award-winning children (up to 21 years); and national award-winning teachers.
Eligible applicants can apply online through the Him Access portal under citizen login by signing up. Payment will only be accepted through digital modes—debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI. Applicants can either collect their cards from the nearest HRTC pass collection center or have them delivered by post. Cardholders can renew their cards online.
