In a heartwarming move timed perfectly with the festival of Raksha Bandhan, the Comprehensive Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has announced free travel for all women passengers on Ama Bus services on 27 August 2026.
Following the direction of the Hon’ble Chief Minister and under the guidance of Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, the initiative will cover Ama Buses operating in seven cities — Bhubaneswar, Kataka, Puri, Raurkela, Sambalpur, Berhampur and Kendujhar. Officials expect more than one lakh women to benefit from the free rides in a single day.
The scheme goes beyond a festive offer. It underscores the government’s focus on safe, affordable and dignified public transport for women. By removing the cost barrier for one day, CRUT aims to encourage greater mobility, boost confidence, and make daily travel smoother for women across urban Odisha.
Passengers can look forward to an already enhanced travel experience. Ama Buses are equipped with GPS-based tracking, CCTV surveillance, trained staff and passenger assistance systems — features designed to make journeys safer and more reliable.
CRUT Managing Director Md. Sadique Alam, IAS, highlighted that the free-travel day reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to inclusive mobility. “This initiative, taken as per the direction of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, further strengthens our resolve to provide women with safe, affordable and dignified transport,” he said.
Women passengers will still need to obtain a ‘Zero Ticket’ to board. CRUT has requested everyone to cooperate with bus staff and follow proper etiquette so that the day remains smooth and pleasant for all.
On this Raksha Bandhan, CRUT invites women across the seven cities to step aboard Ama Bus, celebrate the festival with ease, and experience public transport that prioritises their safety and convenience.
A simple gesture, a meaningful impact — free travel that turns an ordinary commute into a special celebration of care and mobility.
