Bhubaneswar: Over 57 per cent of Odisha Yatri users between October 2024 and July 2025 were women, reflecting a confidence in Odisha’s public transport ecosystem, official sources said Saturday.
The app, launched by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in January 2025, began its pilot operations in October 2024. According to the data, month-on-month usage trends reveal a steady female preference, peaking at 61.63 per cent in January 2025.
Even in the latest data for July 2025, women accounted for 55.38 per cent of users, significantly surpassing male ridership.
“Of the 2.57 lakh passengers who used the platform between October 2024 and July 2025, more than 1.48 lakh (a little over 57 per cent) were female users, a remarkable indicator of enhanced accessibility, safety, and gender inclusion in the state’s mobility landscape,” according to state government data.
Transport officials attribute this shift to a combination of factors, including verified drivers, real-time trip tracking, improved last-mile connectivity, and a robust grievance redressal system.
The app’s integration with enforcement and transport authorities has created a safe and accountable commuting experience, especially for women and other vulnerable groups.
“The data speaks for itself; women are not just participating; they are leading the adoption of Odisha Yatri.
This reflects the government’s strong commitment to gender-responsive, inclusive transport,” said Commerce and Transport department Principal Secretary Usha Padhee.
Further strengthening its community-oriented approach, Odisha Yatri, in collaboration with the State Transport Authority, provided free auto rides to over 30,000 pilgrims during this year’s Rath Yatra in Puri.
Looking ahead, plans are underway to expand Odisha Yatri to more cities across the state and introduce ambulance and boating services under the platform, ensuring wider reach and impact, Transport department sources said.
Notably, Odisha Yatri is a state government-backed, zero-commission ride-hailing app designed to offer affordable and reliable transportation options in Odisha.
PNN