CM launches Odisha Yatri app to streamline auto and taxi bookings

Bhubaneswar, Jan 4: In a bid to enhance road safety in Bhubaneswar, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi announced plans to install smart card devices in all buses across Odisha during the National Road Safety Programme. This initiative aims to decrease the number of accidents in the capital city.

The government is currently in discussions with IIT Madras regarding the implementation of this technology. The smart card devices will emit a siren if the driver shows signs of drowsiness, engages in reckless driving, or is found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. Additionally, these devices are expected to help mitigate road hypnosis for long-distance drivers. The Odisha government plans to make a formal announcement about this initiative in the upcoming budget.

On the same occasion, Chief Minister Majhi also launched the Odisha Yatri app, designed to enable users to book autos and taxis with a single click, similar to popular services like Ola and Uber. The app aims to provide a more transparent alternative to existing commercial ride-hailing platforms that often charge drivers a commission, benefiting middlemen.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister announced the creation of 2,000 additional traffic posts to strengthen road safety measures in the state.