Archeological Survey of India drive for cashless tickets yet to take off

Hyderabad: The much acclaimed proposal of the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) to digitalise entry to the Golconda Fort and the Charminar has not yet taken off much to the chagrin of visitors.

The ASI has proposed to introduce Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) machines at all monuments and museums it looks after in the country. The move was part of the digital India programme.

“Two EPOS machines were provided to us from Axis Bank and Canara Bank. They have not yet kept into use as the authorities have to provide us an account number,” said V Gopal Rao, incharge of the Charminar.

At the Golconda Fort, the domestic and foreign tourists pay Rs 30 as cameras charges and Rs 120 for the sound and lighting show. The regular free at the Charminar and Golconda Fort is Rs 5 for locals and Rs 100 for foreigners.

“When a group comes they have to pay in cash. At times, it runs into a few thousand rupees. If EPOS is introduced it will save us from rushing to the nearby ATM to withdraw money,” said Shaik Saleem, who works as a guide.

According to the senior officials of the Archa-eological Survey of India, the Union government is working out to have a single account wherein the proceeds from the ticket sale can be credited.

“As ASI is trying to get a single account, it is taking time but we are hopeful of offering digital payment soon,” said a senior official of the ASI.

Around 10 lakh tourists visit the Charminar and equal number of people visit the Golconda Fort every year.