Odisha Allocates ₹421 Cr to Expand Electric Bus Network, Smart Mobility

Bhubaneswar: Odisha has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to reshape urban mobility, with the 2026–27 State Budget allocating ₹421 crore to expand electric public transport and strengthen technology-driven mobility systems across cities. The investment underscores the government’s focus on clean energy adoption, efficient public transport and commuter-centric urban development.

At the heart of this transformation is Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), which operates the AMA Bus service — now widely recognised as a benchmark in electric mobility. Serving nearly 3.3 lakh passengers daily, CRUT currently runs a fleet of 290 electric buses, with close to 40 per cent of ticketing transactions conducted digitally, reflecting growing public trust in smart and seamless transport services. AMA Bus has significantly improved everyday commuting by offering reliable, safe and affordable connectivity across major urban centres.

Building on this momentum, the fresh budgetary support will enable the induction of 600 additional electric buses under various urban mobility programmes. In addition, 400 new electric buses will be deployed across five cities under the PM e-Bus Sewa initiative, substantially strengthening intra-city connectivity, easing congestion and cutting down urban carbon emissions.

To further enhance commuter convenience, the government is also scaling up Ama E-Ride services to strengthen first- and last-mile connectivity. These services will be seamlessly integrated through the Odisha Yatri digital platform, enabling route optimisation, cashless payments and real-time commuter information, thereby modernising the state’s urban transport ecosystem.

Terming the allocation transformative, Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said the ₹421 crore investment reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to people-centric development. “AMA Bus has already redefined public transport in Odisha. This expansion will take it to the next level by strengthening electric mobility, improving connectivity and building cleaner, greener and more inclusive cities,” he said.

Echoing this vision, Additional Chief Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department, Smt. Usha Padhee said the investment marks a strategic step towards building resilient and future-ready urban centres. “Our focus remains on scaling electric mobility, deepening digital integration and ensuring that public transport remains affordable, efficient and environmentally sustainable,” she said.

With sustained investments in electric buses, digital innovation and integrated mobility solutions, Odisha is steadily consolidating its position as a leader in sustainable urban transport, advancing both climate goals and inclusive urban growth.