MAM
Hitachi Payment Services and AbhiBus partner to offer digital transit solutions for HRTC
Mumbai: In a significant move to enhance public transportation services, Hitachi Payment Services, an end-to-end payments and commerce solutions provider, teamed up with AbhiBus, a bus booking platform to implement an Integrated Ticketing Management System (IMTS) and provide cashless ticketing solutions for state-run buses in Himachal Pradesh. This collaboration marks the first such initiative in the state, aimed at enhancing the passenger experience and promoting cashless travel amongst the 1.5 crore passengers that use the state transport services each month.
The new digital transit solution will enable passengers to access real-time seat availability, make bookings, book tickets online via HRTC mobile app or website, get tickets in real-time at HRTC bus counters and make payments enroute, via state-of-the-art GPRS-enabled Electronic Bus Ticketing Machine (EBTM). Passengers can also choose their preferred digital payment mode from a range of options, including debit/credit card, UPI, QR code, prepaid wallet, and NCMC (National Common Mobility Card) card. Passengers in the free or concessional category can present their smart card passes to the conductor to issue the appropriate travel tickets via EBTM. The EBTM records both the full fare and the concession fare while ensuring a seamless and efficient ticketing service. Additionally, passengers can conveniently check the current timetable for every bus departing from a specific bus stop to any desired location.
Hitachi Payment Services CEO of digital business Anuj Khosla said, “We are happy to be awarded the prestigious HRTC project. At Hitachi Payment Services, we have been pioneering advanced transit solutions that drive greater convenience for passengers and at the same time improve efficiency for transport operators. Our collaboration with AbhiBus for the Integrated Ticketing Management System will create a new ticketing experience for state public transport users in Himachal. Through our innovative offerings, we continue to transform the transit sector and empower citizens with secure and convenient digital payments.”
AbhiBus Chief Operating Officer Rohit Sharma stated, “We are delighted to partner with HRTC and Hitachi Payment Services for this prestigious project. This partnership enhances travel with instant ticketing, digital ease, and a superior booking experience for over 3,100+ buses. Himachal Pradesh is now at the forefront of digital bus travel.”
Himachal Road Transport Corporation Thakur, IAS, managing director Rohan Chand also expressed, “The implementation of an Integrated Ticketing Management System is a significant milestone for us. It allows us to access real-time bus schedules, not only alleviating traffic congestion but also enhancing safety measures. Furthermore, the introduction of digital payments holds great importance, not just for passengers, but also for the hardworking conductors who meticulously account for every penny at the end of each trip, ultimately saving valuable time.”
Himachal has always been an early adopter of technology and now stands tall among a select group of states with the digitalisation of ticketing services for HRTC. For HRTC, it marks a significant step towards digitalization and integration of its ticketing systems, revolutionizing the overall travel experience for passengers.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
