Bhubaneswar, May 20: The Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) is set to expand its footprint in Odisha’s urban transport sector with the introduction of ‘Ama Bus’ services in six more cities. The announcement was made by Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra during a high-level review meeting held on Wednesday.

The meeting focused on CRUT’s expansion plans, depot development and implementation of the PM e-Bus Seva scheme across the state.

Reviewing the first phase of expansion, the minister assessed the progress of Ama Bus services in Keonjhar, Baripada, Angul, Jharsuguda and Balasore. Discussions were also held on the second phase roadmap covering Jajpur, Rayagada, Koraput, Bhadrak and Balangir.

Officials informed the meeting that the newly launched electric bus service in Keonjhar has witnessed a steady rise in passenger numbers, with daily ridership reaching nearly 1,300.

The review also highlighted progress under the PM e-Bus Seva scheme, under which around 400 electric buses are expected to be introduced in Odisha in the coming days. The minister directed officials to expedite pending infrastructure and power connectivity works to ensure timely operationalisation of depots and electric transport facilities.

He further instructed authorities to speed up the deployment of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Driver Fatigue Monitoring Systems (DFMS) in buses to strengthen commuter safety.

The minister also appreciated the engagement of women drivers in operating electric buses in Keonjhar. CRUT Managing Director Siddhik Alam presented a detailed report on the organisation’s operational, infrastructure and institutional initiatives in Odisha.