Bhubaneswar: In a further boost to environment-friendly urban mobility, the state government has expanded its electric bus fleet with the addition of 40 new buses under Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT).
Housing & Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra flagged off the buses at Gadakana bus depot here Thursday. Addressing the media, Mahapatra said, “The state government remains committed to enhancing urban transportation, ensuring eco-friendly and efficient mobility solutions for citizens. This expansion is a significant step towards realising the vision of VIKSIT Odisha and building a greener future With over 3 lakh people relying on this service daily, the addition of more buses will greatly enhance accessibility, convenience, and the overall public transportation network.” He further highlighted that out of CRUT’s fleet of 560 buses, 180 are electric. At present, Ama Bus service operates in 106 routes across Capital Region, Rourkela, Sambalpur and Berhampur.
Also Read : Ama Bus services affected across Rourkela amid staff protest
This initiative marks another milestone in the state’s journey towards sustainable and smart urban transport, reinforcing the government’s focus on eco-friendly mobility solutions. With this addition, bus frequency will increase on key routes, including 20, 21, 24/24E, 27, 32, 33, 37, 38, 40, 41, 43, 44, 47, 64 and 82. Consequently, the Ama Bus service schedule will be revised from April 4, 2025, with modifications to certain routes. In near future, the fleet will be expanded with 100 additional electric buses under the state scheme.
Further 400 e-buses will be added under PM e-Bus Sewa scheme. State-of-the-art electric depots are currently under construction at Pokhariput in Bhubaneswar and Naraj in Cuttack, with upcoming depots planned at Chhend in Rourkela and at Modipara in Sambalpur. CRUT continues to focus on improving bus services by ensuring safe, efficient, and comfortable travel for all commuters, said sources. Several safety measures have been introduced, alongside a series of enhancements aimed at making the service more reliable.
