Bhubaneswar: In a bid to enhance direct connectivity to Puri from diverse districts, the state government has launched the Jagannath Express bus service. Under the Location Accessible Multi-modal Initiative (LAccMI), this service establishes direct links from district headquarters towns to Puri via the state capital. Notably, it introduces a forward-thinking initiative, presenting a substantial 50% reduction in fare exclusively tailored for female passengers.
The state government has introduced the Jagannath Express bus service to facilitate people to get direct connectivity to Puri from various districts. An integral part of the Location Accessible Multi-modal Initiative (LAccMI), this service not only connects district headquarters towns to Puri via the state capital but also brings forth a progressive 50% reduction in fare exclusively for female passengers.
Launched by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, the initiative marks a proactive effort to prioritize women’s participation in the electoral process. The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) confirmed that the government plans to operate a fleet of 80 super premium buses from all 30 districts in Odisha to Puri.
In the inaugural phase, the focus is on 12 districts, namely Balangir, Bargarh, Ganjam, Jharsuguda, Koraput, Kalahandi, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Nuapada, Rayagada, Sambalpur, and Sundargarh.
CM Patnaik, articulating the significance of the scheme, emphasized its inclusive nature, providing seamless transportation to Puri for people across the state. “The Jagannath Express bus service extends a remarkable 50% fare reduction for women passengers, contributing to their enhanced accessibility and mobility,” he stated during the launch.
Commerce and Transport Minister Tukuni Sahu, reiterated the government’s commitment to women’s welfare. She expressed optimism about the transformative impact of the Jagannath Express service, predicting significant benefits for the public by facilitating easy access to the state capital and the revered town of Puri from their respective district headquarters.