Bhubaneswar, Jan 10: In a major boost to urban mobility in western Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today flagged off 25 new electric buses in Sambalpur and announced that another 25 e-buses will be added by the end of this month.

With this, a total of 50 e-buses will operate in Sambalpur, significantly improving the city’s public transport system.

The Chief Minister launched the e-bus service during his two-day visit to Sambalpur.

The Chief Minister said the initiative aims to make transportation for the residents of Sambalpur smoother, more organized, and environmental friendly.

To ensure efficient operation of the new e-bus fleet, an ultra-modern bus terminal of the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has also been inaugurated at Ainthapali. The terminal, along with the maintenance of buses, has been planned with a long-term vision. An amount of ₹238.14 crore has been allocated for the maintenance and upkeep of the terminal and the e-buses for the next 10 years.

The Chief Minister stated that the introduction of e-buses would strengthen the city’s transport infrastructure and provide safe, comfortable, and reliable commuting options for citizens.

Special arrangements have been made for persons with disabilities, including wheelchair access.

He further added that the e-buses are equipped with digital payment facilities, along with incentives and concessions for digital transactions. Being electric, these buses will also play a vital role in reducing environmental pollution and promoting sustainable urban transport in Sambalpur.

Several dignitaries were present at the event, including Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari, Panchayati Raj Minister Rabinarayan Naik, Sambalpur MLA Jayanarayan Mishra, former MLA Nauri Naik, and BJP District President Ramchandra Meher, among others.