Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards gender inclusion in public transport, women drivers will soon operate the ‘Ama Bus’ service in Odisha. The decision was taken during a review meeting of the Ama Bus service chaired by Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra.
As part of the initiative, 20 women will be sent to Pune on January 31 to undergo specialised training. The programme will equip them with skills in electric bus operations and basic mechanical knowledge, enabling them to drive e-buses alongside their male counterparts.
Officials said the move aims to empower women, create new employment opportunities, and promote inclusivity in the state’s urban transport system. After completing the training, the women drivers will be deployed on Ama Bus routes across cities.
The government views the initiative as a progressive reform that will not only strengthen public transport services but also encourage greater participation of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
-OdishaAge
