Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has announced a complete transition of the Ama Bus service from diesel-powered vehicles to a fully electric fleet, marking a significant step towards clean and sustainable urban mobility in the state.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra said all existing diesel buses will be phased out in a planned and gradual manner and replaced with electric buses to reduce pollution and improve air quality across urban centres. The move aligns with Odisha’s broader commitment to environmentally responsible public transport.
The decision was taken following a comprehensive review meeting on Ama Bus operations, which also focused on service expansion, commuter safety, and inclusivity. As part of key reforms, the government will induct women drivers into the Ama Bus service. Under this initiative, 20 women candidates from Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) will undergo specialised electric bus driving training in Pune starting January 31.
To further strengthen safety standards, the state will establish a dedicated driver training institute at the CRUT depot. The institute will provide structured training on driving skills, traffic regulations, and road behaviour, ensuring higher professionalism among drivers. Mandatory alcohol testing for drivers will continue to be strictly enforced to maintain commuter safety.
Officials said the transition to electric buses, coupled with skill development and gender inclusion, will make Ama Bus a more sustainable, safe, and inclusive public transport system, benefiting daily commuters while supporting Odisha’s clean energy goals.
-OdishaAge
