Odisha CM Unveils Digital Upgrades in ‘Ama Bus’ Service to Transform Public Transport

Bhubaneswar: Marking Local Self-Governance Day, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday rolled out a series of modern, commuter-friendly features under the ‘Ama Bus’ service, aimed at revolutionizing public transport across Odisha.

The initiatives, launched by the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) under the Housing and Urban Development Department, include the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), WhatsApp-based ticket booking, and expanded digital pass systems. Officials said the upgrades will ensure seamless, affordable, and dignified travel for passengers across urban and semi-urban regions.

Highlighting Odisha’s inclusion in the ‘One Nation, One Card’ programme, the Chief Minister said the initiative reflects the state’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology for citizen convenience. “With these reforms, passengers in Odisha can now travel with the same card across buses, metros, and other NCMC-enabled systems nationwide,” he said.

To promote cashless travel, the state has introduced fare concessions for digital ticketing. Women commuters will get a 15% discount, while general passengers can avail 10% off on digital tickets. The digital pass facility has also been extended to Brahmapur, Sambalpur, and Rourkela, expanding the reach of commuter benefits.

In a major convenience upgrade, WhatsApp ticketing has been launched. Commuters can now book tickets instantly by messaging 9078050218 or searching for Capital Region Urban Transport on WhatsApp. Ticketing has also been integrated into the Odisha Yatri app, ensuring flexible and user-friendly booking options.

While smartphone users can continue using the ‘Ama Bus’ mobile app, CRUT has also introduced a card-based pass system for those without smartphones. These passes will be valid across all cities where the Ama Bus operates, making the service more inclusive.

The NCMC card, implemented in partnership with the State Bank of India and Airtel Payments Bank, is priced at ₹50 with a reissue fee of ₹200 and a five-year validity. Cards will be available at CRUT counters in Bhubaneswar (Patia and BSABT), Master Canteen, Cuttack Netaji Bus Terminal, Puri Bus Stand, Rourkela, Sambalpur, and Brahmapur.

The launch event saw the presence of Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Bhubaneswar (Ekamra) MLA Babu Singh, Principal Secretary Usha Padhee, and other senior officials.

Officials said the upgraded ‘Ama Bus’ service reflects Odisha’s commitment to inclusive, technology-driven urban mobility while setting the foundation for a digitally integrated public transport ecosystem in the state.