Bhubaneswar: To enhance pilgrimage accessibility, the Odisha government has announced the launch of direct bus services to the revered Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The service, set to begin before the New Year, aims to facilitate religious travel for citizens while offering substantial subsidies on ticket prices for pilgrims and women.
Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena unveiled the plan, emphasizing the state’s commitment to making religious journeys more affordable and accessible. “We are committed to making religious travel accessible and affordable for our citizens. The subsidized fares will encourage more people to undertake these spiritual journeys,” Minister Jena said.
The Char Dham, consisting of Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Rameswaram, hold great significance in Hinduism. To ensure a comfortable and memorable journey, the government has procured special luxury buses equipped with modern amenities. The subsidized rates aim to make these spiritual trips accessible to a wider audience, particularly encouraging women and older adults to participate.
In addition to the Char Dham route, the government is exploring the expansion of interstate bus routes, linking Bhubaneswar with other major cities and states, thereby enhancing travel convenience for Odisha’s residents. This move aligns with the broader strategy of the Odisha government to bolster tourism, improve transportation infrastructure, and support the needs of citizens.