Odisha Mandates Fire Safety Systems in Sleeper Buses to Enhance Passenger Safety

Bhubaneswar: In a significant move to strengthen passenger safety, the Odisha government has made it mandatory for all sleeper coach buses operating in the state to be equipped with water tanks and functional sprinkler systems to tackle fire emergencies. The directive was issued by State Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena during a meeting…

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Passengers Safe as Ama Bus Gutted by Fire Near Kalinga Studio Square

Bhubaneswar: A major tragedy was averted on Saturday morning after a state-run Ama Bus caught fire near Kalinga Studio Square in Bhubaneswar, prompting swift evacuation of passengers and a rapid response from fire services. The incident occurred at around 6:40 am when smoke was noticed emanating from the bus while it was on its regular…

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BJD Slams BJP Government’s Mismanagement of PUC Enforcement, Stands with People of Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) strongly condemns the BJP government’s grossly mismanaged handling of the Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate enforcement in Odisha, which has caused widespread hardship and inconvenience to ordinary citizens. The sudden announcement of the “No PUC, No Fuel” rule from January 1, 2026, without adequate preparation, led to chaos across…

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Orissa High Court Seeks State’s Response on ‘No PUCC, No Fuel’ Policy

Bhubaneswar: The Orissa High Court on Tuesday issued notice to the Odisha government over its decision to deny petrol and diesel to vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) and sought the state’s response within two weeks. Hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), a division bench comprising Chief Justice Harish Tandon and Justice…

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IT Companies to Operate from Baramunda Bus Terminal in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: In a move aimed at optimising urban infrastructure and boosting commercial activity, IT companies will soon begin operations from the Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bus Terminal (BSABT) at Baramunda in Bhubaneswar. The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has decided to rent out space on two floors of the terminal to IT firms, transforming the facility into…

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Shankh Air Set to Take Off in January 2026, Targets Affordable Full-Service Travel

Bhubaneswar: Shankh Air, a new full-service airline with a strong focus on affordability and regional connectivity, is set to commence commercial operations in the second half of January 2026, marking a fresh entry into India’s competitive aviation market. Founded by entrepreneur Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma, Shankh Air has its roots in the promoter’s trading firm, Shankh…

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Odisha Extends Electric Vehicle Policy Till March 2026

Bhubaneswar: In a strong push towards sustainable cities and future-ready mobility, the Odisha government has extended its Electric Vehicle Policy, 2021 till March 31, 2026, reaffirming its commitment to clean transportation, innovation-led growth, and a greener future. The extension aims to accelerate electric vehicle adoption across the state by continuing fiscal incentives, strengthening charging infrastructure,…

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