In a decisive move towards sustainable urban transformation, the Odisha Budget for 2026–27 has allocated Rs 421 crore for Urban Mobility.
This funding aims to significantly expand electric bus services and enhance technology-driven public transport systems across the state.
This budget allocation represents a bold step in Odisha’s growth journey, underscoring the government’s commitment to clean, efficient, and citizen-centric mobility. The Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), Odisha’s flagship public transport service, has set a national benchmark in adopting electric mobility with its AMA Bus system. Currently, CRUT serves nearly 330,000 commuters daily and operates 290 electric buses. Approximately 40 per cent of ticketing transactions are conducted digitally, demonstrating strong commuter confidence in smart and seamless services. The AMA Bus system has transformed daily commuting by providing reliable, safe, and affordable connectivity across major urban centres.
Building on this success, the budget allocation will allow for the introduction of 600 additional electric buses under various urban mobility initiatives. Additionally, 400 new electric buses will be deployed across five cities as part of the PM e-Bus Sewa initiative. This large-scale expansion is expected to enhance intra-city connectivity, alleviate traffic congestion, and reduce carbon emissions in urban areas.
The government is also expanding Ama E-Ride services to improve first- and last-mile connectivity, integrating them through the Odisha Yatri platform. This digital ecosystem will promote route optimisation, cashless transactions, and enhanced commuter convenience, further modernising Odisha’s urban mobility landscape.
Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, hailed the budget as transformative and forward-looking. He stated, “The Rs 421 crore allocation for Urban Mobility reflects our Government’s unwavering commitment to people-centric development. AMA Bus has already redefined public transport in Odisha, and this expansion will elevate it to the next level. By increasing the number of electric buses and strengthening integrated mobility solutions, we are not only improving connectivity but also fostering cleaner, greener, and more inclusive cities for the future.”
Supporting this vision, Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department, remarked, “This investment marks a strategic step towards building resilient and future-ready urban centres. Our focus remains on expanding electric mobility, enhancing digital integration, and ensuring that public transport is affordable, efficient, and environmentally sustainable.”
With continued investments in electric mobility, digital innovation, and infrastructure development, Odisha is steadily solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable urban transport—driving inclusive growth while advancing its climate and development commitments.
