Bhubaneswar, Jul24: To ensure smooth and hassle-free travel for devotees during the Bahuda Yatra, the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has deployed 50 special Ama Buses connecting Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Khordha and adjoining areas with Puri. The initiative aims to provide safe, comfortable and reliable transportation for the thousands of pilgrims expected to attend the return car festival of Lord Jagannath.

The special bus services will operate on multiple routes, including the DD1 service between Shree Mandira Parking and Master Canteen, the Airport Shuttle linking Master Canteen with Biju Patnaik International Airport, and several express and feeder services connecting Talabania Bus Stand with Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Khordha, Jagatpur, Mahanadi Vihar, Astaranga, Satapada, Madhava Temple and Nimapada.

To strengthen local transport within Puri, CRUT has also deployed 15 buses provided by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) for a free shuttle service. These buses will operate every 10 minutes from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. between Samanga Parking and Sterling Parking via Mangalaghat, offering last-mile connectivity to devotees while helping reduce traffic congestion during the festival.

Ahead of the festival, CRUT organised specialised training programmes for its Captains and Guides, covering vehicle familiarisation, pre-trip inspections, defensive driving, lane discipline, traffic regulations, emergency response and fire safety. All buses have undergone comprehensive mechanical and safety inspections to ensure safe operations during the festival.

CRUT has also placed its operations, maintenance and field teams on high alert, with dedicated personnel deployed at key boarding points to assist passengers and ensure seamless bus movement throughout the Bahuda Yatra period.

The fare for the Express Special Services will remain unchanged, and passengers will be charged the regular fare. Devotees have been advised to remain alert and safeguard their personal belongings while travelling during the festival rush.

For route details and assistance, commuters can contact the Ama Bus Helpline at 1800-570-0218 or follow CRUT's official social media platforms for the latest service updates.