Bhubaneswar: Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister, Housing & Urban Development Department and Public Enterprises, Govt. of Odisha flagged off 12 new electric buses of Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) at Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bus Terminal (BSABT) today.
He also inaugurated Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs) at strategically chosen locations BSABT, Master Canteen OD Terminal and Puri Bus Stand.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Mahapatra said, “Govt. of Odisha is committed to enhance urban mobility in the state. This expansion symbolizes our commitment for building a sustainable future under VIKSIT Odisha vision.”
He further added, “Out of 475 buses, 95 buses are now electric operating in 97 routes. The ATVMs located at strategically chosen locations will facilitate seamless ticketing for Mo Bus passengers.” He also announced introduction of two new routes (65 & 66) connecting Master Canteen to Wonder La Water Park- Khordha New Bus Stand and Airport to Pathargadia/KISS College via Master Canteen respectively to enhance accessibility and convenience for commuters.
The ATVMs are equipped with advanced features to issue tickets with a variety of payment methods, including cash, UPI and coins and provide detailed route information. The installation of these ATVMs will not only streamline the ticketing process but also enable the authorities to effectively monitor count and increase digital footprint.
Dr. Mahapatra unveiled the logo of “Odisha Yatri” and inaugurated a kiosk at BSABT for drivers’ registration and passenger assistance during his visit. Speaking about the app, he said, “Odisha Yatri app aimed at both empowering drivers and improving customer experiences. The app will operate on zero commission. CRUT is first service provider to obtain aggregator license in Odisha.”
He further reiterated this initiative aligns with the state’s broader vision of ‘VIKSIT Odisha’. Earlier a MoU has been signed between CRUT, Moving Tech (the parent company of Namma Yatri), ONDC and Odisha Road Safety Society (ORSS) for implementation of this project.
Among others, Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, H&UD department, Amitabh Thakur, Transport Commissioner and Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Managing Director, CRUT were present at the event.
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