Bhubaneswar: To enhance public transport infrastructure and improve connectivity across Odisha, the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) today launched 13 new bus services on nine routes. The initiative was inaugurated by Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, Minister of Commerce & Transport, through a virtual conference held at Kharavela Bhawan.
The launch event witnessed the participation of several dignitaries, including Nityananda Ganda, Minister of School & Mass Education; Krushna Chandra Patra, Minister of Food Supply & Consumer Welfare; MP from Nawarangpur; and MLAs from Kotpad, Khandapada, and Nawarangpur constituencies.
Welcoming the dignitaries, Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of Commerce & Transport, emphasized the government’s commitment to providing affordable and efficient transportation for the people of Odisha. She highlighted the importance of these new routes in improving regional connectivity and accessibility.
The new bus services will operate on the following routes:
- Siddha Bhairavi, Ganiya (Kantilo), Kotpad, Joranda, and Paralakhemundi connecting with Puri
- Indravati and Berhampur connecting with Bhubaneswar
- Kundura connecting with Cuttack
- Berhampur connecting with Rourkela
Amitav Thakur, Commissioner of Transport, and Diptesh Pattanaik, CMD of OSRTC, were present alongside other departmental officers to oversee the launch.
The new bus services aim to address transportation challenges, especially in rural and underserved areas, by providing safe, affordable, and reliable travel options. This initiative is expected to not only strengthen Odisha’s public transport network but also promote inclusive development by bridging the gap between urban and rural regions.
The government’s continued efforts to enhance transportation infrastructure reflect its vision of fostering connectivity, economic growth, and social inclusivity across the state.
