Bhubaneswar, Aug 29: Odisha has emerged as a frontrunner in sustainable urban transport, securing the fifth position nationally in the adoption of electric buses (e-buses).
With 450 e-buses already operational and ambitious plans to cross the 1,000 mark in the coming years, the state is rapidly building a robust green mobility ecosystem aimed at making its cities cleaner, smarter, and more commuter-friendly.
Across India, 14,329 e-buses are currently on the roads, with Delhi (3,564), Maharashtra (3,296), Karnataka (2,236), and Uttar Pradesh (850) leading in deployment. Odisha, ranked just behind these major states, has taken decisive steps to integrate sustainable and cost-effective electric mobility into its urban transport systems.
In the eastern region, Odisha is the clear leader, outperforming its neighbours: West Bengal (391), Andhra Pradesh (238), Chhattisgarh (215), and Jharkhand (46).
The Central Government, through initiatives like the PM-eBus Sewa and PM-eDrive, is offering financial and infrastructural support to states. Odisha’s Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has been proactive in leveraging this support and is planning to expand e-bus services to additional cities, including Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, Berhampur, and Angul.
To support the expanding fleet, charging infrastructure is being installed at depots and terminals across the state. CRUT is also rolling out smart ticketing systems, including QR-code-based payments, NCMC cards, and app-enabled bookings. Additionally, there is a strong focus on crew training and capacity building to ensure high-quality, commuter-friendly services.
Dr. Krushnachandra Mohapatra, Minister of Housing & Urban Development, emphasized the state’s commitment to green mobility: “Odisha’s rapid strides in e-mobility reflect our commitment to both the environment and the people. The expansion of e-buses is not just about technology—it is about providing dignified, affordable, and eco-friendly travel to every citizen. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, our endeavour is to build urban centres that are cleaner, greener, and sustainable for future generations.”
Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, H&UD Department, highlighted the role of integrated planning: “E-bus services have become the backbone of modern urban transport in Odisha. By combining technology, smart ticketing, and green infrastructure, we are making mobility both convenient and sustainable. The enthusiastic response of commuters shows that Odisha is moving in the right direction—towards a future where public transport is the preferred choice.”
Currently, e-buses primarily serve Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Puri, where affordable, air-conditioned rides have encouraged citizens to shift from private vehicles to public transport. This growing acceptance demonstrates that green initiatives can successfully align with public needs for comfort and convenience.
