Bhubaneswar: In a transformative shift for public transportation, the Odisha government has successfully launched an initiative to integrate women drivers into the Aam Bus service. Spearheaded by Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, this project marks a significant milestone in gender-inclusive governance and the modernization of the state’s transit infrastructure.
The first group of twenty trailblazing women has recently returned to Odisha following an intensive fourteen-day advanced training program in Pune. Conducted at the Ekka Mobility plant and supported by GIZ, the curriculum provided these pioneers with specialized knowledge in electric vehicle bus operations, safety protocols, and modern urban management. Each participant already held a valid heavy vehicle license, but this specialized training ensured they are fully equipped to handle the complexities of sustainable electric transport.
Padhee has emphasized that this initiative is about much more than filling vacancies; it is a platform for leadership and equality. By placing women in roles traditionally dominated by men, the state is actively breaking down professional barriers and encouraging women across Odisha to pursue diverse career paths. The leadership believes that this move will naturally enhance passenger safety and service quality, as the inclusion of women drivers often brings a high level of care and diligence to public service.
To ensure the highest standards of safety for the public, the transition to active duty is being managed with meticulous care. The drivers are currently undergoing an additional fifteen days of local practice and route identification within the state. They will only be officially deployed after a comprehensive field evaluation to confirm their readiness for the road.
This vision, championed by the Capital Region Urban Transport and the state leadership, aims to build a more inclusive and secure transport network. By providing sustainable livelihoods and technical expertise to women, Odisha is setting a new standard for how urban mobility can serve as a catalyst for social empowerment and public safety.