Bhubaneswar: To make bus travel more convenient, Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC), a state government undertaking, Wednesday introduced digital transactions with the launch of LAXMI QR Code for bus services available under the Location Accessible Multi-modal Initiative’ (LAccMI) initiative. This cashless and convenient payment method was launched by Commerce and Transport principal secretary Usha Padhee, who lauded OSRTC’s initiative, highlighting the alignment of the LAXMI QR Code with the 5T initiative of the state government. Padhee also highlighted the LAXMI QR Code’s potential to revolutionize travel experiences.
Expressing pride over this technological achievement, OSRTC CMD Diptesh Pattnayak said that the launch of the LAXMI QR Code is reflective of the agency’s unwavering commitment to customer-centric services, which exemplifies the government’s dedication to embracing digital solutions for a seamless travel experience. “This initiative perfectly aligns with the state government’s transformative 5T initiative,” he said. Transport Commissioner Amitav Thakur emphasized the collaborative efforts that led to this innovation. “The partnership between OSRTC and HDFC was instrumental in realizing this payment method,” he stated. The LAXMI QR Code introduces a user secure, and efficient payment option, reducing transaction time and enhancing passenger safety. “This innovative step aligns with OSRTC’s commitment to 5T initiative, fostering progress through technological advancements in the transport sector,” an official said.
Notably, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had launched LAccMI to make public transport more accessible and affordable in the state. The buses, connecting the remote parts of the state to the respective district headquarters, are expected to give villagers more autonomy and strengthen the infrastructure needed for a growing economy. “Under this scheme, more than 1,000 buses will be roll out in the villages across the state. 36 buses have been rolled out today that will provide bus services in 111 panchayats of the Malkangiri district,” the CM had said launching the service. In the first phase, bus services will be provided in rural areas of six districts namely Malkangiri, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Kalahandi, and Gajapati.