Odisha has taken a transformative step towards modernising urban transportation with the launch of a series of digital initiatives by Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) under the Housing & Urban Development Department.
On Local Self Governance Day, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated these initiatives, marking a milestone in commuter convenience and innovation. The event was graced by Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister for Housing & Urban Development and Public Enterprises, Babu Singh, MLA, Ekamra, Bhubaneswar, and other dignitaries.
The flagship initiatives include the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) for Odisha, a WhatsApp-based ticketing service for Ama Bus, special discounts on digital ticketing (10% for all commuters and 15% for women), and the introduction of a digital pass system with plans for expansion to other cities. These measures align with the national vision of “One Nation, One Card” and aim to make urban mobility seamless, cashless, and inclusive.
The NCMC, launched in collaboration with the State Bank of India and Airtel Payment Bank, enables commuters to use a single card for multiple transport modes, including buses, e-rickshaws, and metro systems. Priced at an issuance fee of ₹50 and a re-issuance fee of ₹200, the card is valid for five years and supports Ama Bus passes, ensuring interoperability with national urban mobility standards.
CRUT has also revamped its pass system to promote digital adoption. The new digital-only passes, accessible via the Ama Bus mobile app and NCMC card, include a long-route pass for fares above ₹50, catering to commuter demand. These passes are now available across Ama Bus operational cities, including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, Berhampur, Sambalpur, and Rourkela. Pass categories include City Pass (for fares ≤ ₹30), Magic Pass (for fares ≤ ₹50), and Long Route Pass (for fares > ₹50), with daily and monthly options tailored for affordability.
To encourage digital payments, CRUT offers a 10% discount on tickets for all commuters and a 15% discount for women, promoting greater public transport usage among women. Adding to the convenience, commuters can now book Ama Bus tickets via WhatsApp (+91 9078050218) on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) platform or through the Odisha Yatri app.
NCMC cards are available at key locations, including CRUT’s Head Office in Patia, Bhubaneswar, and bus stands in Cuttack, Puri, Rourkela, Sambalpur, and Berhampur. These initiatives reflect the Government of Odisha’s commitment to modern, inclusive urban mobility, supporting the vision of *Viksit Bharat, Viksit Odisha*.
