Odisha is fast becoming a national leader in sustainable urban transport, securing the fifth position in India for electric bus (e-bus) adoption.
With 450 e-buses already operational and plans to surpass 1,000 in the near future, the state is reshaping its mobility landscape to be cleaner, smarter, and more commuter-friendly.
Across India, 14,329 e-buses are currently in service, with Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh leading the charge. Odisha’s proactive approach has placed it ahead of its eastern neighbors—West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand—demonstrating its commitment to green mobility.
Backed by central schemes like PM-e Bus Service and PM-e-Drive, Odisha’s Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) is expanding services to cities like Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, Berhampur, and Angul. Charging infrastructure is being rapidly deployed, and smart ticketing systems such as QR payments, NCMC cards, and mobile apps are enhancing commuter convenience.
Dr. Krushnachandra Mohapatra, Minister of Housing & Urban Development, emphasized the state’s vision: “Odisha’s e-mobility journey is about dignity, affordability, and sustainability. Under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, we are building urban centers that future generations will be proud of.”
Principal Secretary Smt Usha Padhee added, “E-buses are now the backbone of urban transport in Odisha. The integration of technology and infrastructure is making public transport the preferred choice.”
Currently serving Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Puri, e-buses offer affordable AC rides that are encouraging citizens to shift from private vehicles. This growing acceptance reflects how green initiatives can align with public comfort and convenience.
As Odisha aligns with NITI Aayog’s national target of 50,000 e-buses, it is poised to make a significant contribution to India’s climate goals while meeting the mobility needs of its expanding urban population.
