Bhubaneswar, Jun 18: The Comprehensive Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has emerged as a national benchmark in sustainable, citizen-centric public transportation, redefining urban mobility across Odisha through rapid expansion of electric buses, technology-driven commuter services, enhanced safety systems, and inclusive workforce initiatives.

Between 2024 and April 2026, CRUT expanded its fleet to 760 buses, accelerating Odisha’s transition to green mobility. Electric bus services were rolled out in Sambalpur and Berhampur in 2024, followed by the induction of 80 midi electric buses in Bhubaneswar, five electric double-decker buses, 35 buses in Puri, and 100 in Naraj during 2025. Keonjhar joined the network in 2026 with 25 electric buses. Supporting infrastructure includes modern depots at Gadakana, Naraj, Puri, Sambalpur, Berhampur, and Keonjhar, alongside Electric Odisha Terminals at Chandrasekharpur and Master Canteen.

Highlighting the government’s vision, Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said CRUT’s progress reflects Odisha’s commitment to safe, affordable, and environmentally sustainable public transport. Additional Chief Secretary Smt. Usha Padhee emphasized the state’s focus on building future-ready cities through integrated transport infrastructure and digital innovation.

CRUT now records over three lakh daily riders, with digital transactions accounting for 45% of fare collections. Initiatives such as the Ama Bus ticketing platform, ONDC-enabled WhatsApp booking, automatic ticket vending machines, and the National Common Mobility Card have simplified travel and boosted digital adoption.

Managing Director Md. Siddique Alam noted milestones including expanded electric fleets, strengthened digital services, and workforce empowerment. He announced upcoming deployments of 400 electric buses under the PM eBus Sewa Scheme and three hydrogen fuel cell buses supported by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
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Beyond buses, CRUT’s Odisha Yatri zero-commission ride-hailing platform has empowered 16,779 drivers to earn over Rs11.65 crore collectively. Safety has been enhanced through GPS-enabled Command and Control Centres and women’s safety modules with SOS features. Workforce development has trained over 6,000 crew members since 2024, including 20 women drivers trained to operate electric buses.

CRUT’s achievements have earned national recognition, including the “City with the Best Public Transport System” award at the Urban Mobility India Awards 2024. With its focus on green mobility, technology, safety, and inclusion, CRUT continues to steer Odisha towards a smarter, cleaner, and more sustainable future.