Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has approved a performance-based incentive scheme for Ama Bus captains (drivers) and guides (conductors), aimed at strengthening road safety, improving passenger convenience, and upgrading workforce skills. The scheme will come into effect from January 26, with incentives disbursed on a quarterly basis based on evaluations of safe driving practices and overall job performance.
The decision was taken at a high-level committee meeting chaired by Usha Padhi, Principal Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department. Officials said the initiative is designed to reward responsible driving behaviour while motivating frontline staff to maintain high service standards.
During the meeting, authorities reviewed speed monitoring data from early January and noted that no violations by Ama Bus drivers were recorded, reflecting improved compliance with safety norms. The committee also assessed upgraded facilities and management practices at bus stops to ensure smoother operations and better commuter experience.
To deepen public participation, the government plans to open a citizen feedback mechanism from February, allowing commuters to share suggestions on route planning and service improvements. Officials said this would help align public transport services more closely with local travel needs.
In parallel, the state is strengthening driver skill development by providing electric buses to the Institute of Driving Training & Research for hands-on training. Advanced simulators are also being introduced to support specialised e-bus training, particularly as Odisha expands its electric public transport fleet.
Officials said the combined focus on incentives, training, and citizen engagement is expected to uplift overall service quality, reinforce road safety culture, and build greater trust in public transport across urban Odisha.
-OdishaAge
