Odisha launches 12 new electric buses and ATVMs to enhance urban mobility

Bhubaneswar, Oct 30: Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, the Minister for Housing & Urban Development and Public Enterprises in Odisha, officially launched 12 new electric buses for the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) at the Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bus Terminal (BSABT) today. Additionally, he inaugurated Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs) at key locations, including BSABT, the Master Canteen OD Terminal, and the Puri Bus Stand.

In a press briefing, Dr. Mahapatra emphasized the government's dedication to improving urban mobility across the state, stating, "The expansion symbolizes our commitment to building a sustainable future under the VIKSIT Odisha vision." He noted that out of 475 buses in total, 95 are now electric, servicing 97 routes. The strategically placed ATVMs aim to facilitate seamless ticketing for Mo Bus passengers.

Dr. Mahapatra also announced two new routes: Route 65 connecting Master Canteen to Wonder La Water Park and Route 66 linking the Airport to Pathargadia/KISS College via Master Canteen, enhancing accessibility for commuters. The ATVMs will accept various payment methods, including cash, UPI, and coins, while also providing detailed route information, streamlining the ticketing process and increasing the digital footprint.

During his visit, Dr. Mahapatra unveiled the "Odisha Yatri" app logo and inaugurated a kiosk at BSABT for driver registration and passenger assistance. He explained that the app aims to empower drivers while enhancing customer experiences, operating on a zero-commission basis. CRUT is the first service provider in Odisha to obtain an aggregator license for this initiative.

This initiative aligns with the state’s broader vision of 'VIKSIT Odisha,' following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between CRUT, Moving Tech (the parent company of Namma Yatri), ONDC, and the Odisha Road Safety Society (ORSS) for the project's implementation.

The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Usha Padhi, Principal Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department, Amitabh Thakur, Transport Commissioner, and Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Managing Director of CRUT.