By Shri Pravakar Sahoo
Bhubaneswar: In a major push for green mobility, Odisha is set to add 600 new electric buses to its public transport fleet, a move that officials say will significantly reduce emissions and improve the quality of urban life. The announcement comes as Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Puri continue to grapple with the pressures of rapid urbanization, including traffic congestion and rising pollution.
The Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), which operates the highly successful ‘AMA Bus’ service, will manage the new fleet. CRUT has already earned national acclaim, including the Best Smart Transport Project award, for its tech-enabled, affordable, and inclusive approach to public transport.
Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, Minister of Housing & Urban Development, affirmed the government’s commitment, stating, “Odisha is committed to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable transport system. The rollout of 600 electric buses will not only cut emissions but also improve the quality of life for lakhs of urban citizens.”
This initiative is a collaborative effort, with funding support from Central Government schemes like PM-e Bus Service and PM-e-Drive. Odisha is supplementing these programs with its own incentives, including registration and road tax exemptions for electric vehicles.
Smt. Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, H&UD Department, emphasized the social and environmental significance of the project. “Public transport is not only about mobility—it is about equity, affordability, and environmental responsibility. CRUT’s electric bus initiative represents a conscious shift towards cleaner skies and healthier urban living for every citizen,” she said.
The success of the AMA Bus service, which prior to the pandemic was carrying nearly two lakh passengers daily, highlights the public’s readiness to embrace modern, shared mobility. With features like digital ticketing, women-friendly services, and courteous ‘AMA Bus Captains,’ CRUT has transformed public perception, making bus travel a safe and aspirational choice.
Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Managing Director of CRUT, underscored the vital role of public support in this transition. “AMA Bus is more than a bus service—it is a people’s movement. Every commuter who chooses AMA Bus helps reduce congestion, cut emissions, and make our cities more livable,” he said.
The state’s leadership in e-mobility is poised to make Bhubaneswar and Cuttack models of urban transport for the rest of India. Officials say the ultimate success of the program depends on a change in citizen behavior—a shift from private vehicles to shared, sustainable mobility.
The electric bus is seen not merely as a vehicle but as a symbol of a healthier tomorrow. As Odisha steers towards a cleaner future, the message to its citizens is clear: your journey can be part of the solution.