E-Bus Rollout, ₹1,330 Crore Projects Mark Major Development Push in Keonjhar

Bhubaneswar/Keonjhar: Signalling a renewed focus on infrastructure, green mobility and inclusive growth, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday unveiled a development package exceeding ₹1,330 crore for Keonjhar district, alongside launching a modern electric bus service.

At a district-level conclave, the Chief Minister rolled out a mix of new, ongoing and completed initiatives spanning 187 projects. This included foundation laying for 62 projects worth around ₹705 crore and inauguration of 24 completed works valued at ₹251 crore. In addition, a fresh set of 101 projects worth nearly ₹375 crore was announced to further accelerate development.

Putting the spotlight on sustainable transport, Majhi flagged off 25 fully air-conditioned e-buses and inaugurated the newly built ‘Ama Bus’ Depot, constructed at a cost of ₹17 crore. With fares starting from just ₹5, the service aims to make public transport more accessible, while features like CCTV surveillance, GPS tracking and panic buttons are expected to enhance commuter safety.

The initiative also underscores women’s empowerment, with women taking on key roles as bus guides and drivers. Around 30 women have been engaged as guides and two as drivers, forming part of a 150-member workforce under the project. The Chief Minister said such steps reinforce the state’s push towards greater participation of women in public services.

Emphasising environmental gains, Majhi noted that the e-bus service is expected to cut carbon emissions by 330 to 390 tonnes annually. The government has allocated ₹238 crore for maintenance and indicated plans to expand the service to other cities, positioning Odisha at the forefront of green mobility initiatives.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister acknowledged Keonjhar’s contribution to the state’s economy through its mineral wealth, while noting past developmental gaps. He said the district is now witnessing accelerated progress and revealed that plans for a mega steel plant are nearing finalisation, which could transform the region into a major industrial centre.

Describing the coming years as a “Decade of Resolve,” Majhi said Keonjhar will play a pivotal role in achieving Odisha’s development goals by 2036, with improved infrastructure expected to drive both economic growth and quality of life.

On the sidelines of the event, financial assistance worth ₹5.75 lakh was distributed among six beneficiaries under various welfare schemes, including support for marriage, bereavement and self-employment under the ‘Udyami’ initiative.