Argus News - Odisha Cabinet Approves Rs 3,400 Crore 'Atal Bus Stand' Scheme For Statewide Transport Upgrade

Bhubaneswar, Apr 9: The Odisha Cabinet on Friday approved the ‘Atal Bus Stand (ABS)’ scheme with a total outlay of Rs 3,400 crore, aimed at transforming public transport infrastructure across the state by the 2031-32 financial year.

Unified Management Framework For Bus Stands
Under the scheme, all public bus stands across Odisha will be brought under a single umbrella to ensure uniform development and streamlined management. This includes existing bus stands developed under previous schemes as well as those managed by Urban Local Bodies.

Categorisation Based On Demand & Importance
The government said bus stands will be developed under three categories -- “A”, “B” and “C” -- based on passenger demand, transport requirements and regional importance. The classification aims to ensure need-based infrastructure development and targeted investment.

OSRTC To Lead Implementation
The scheme will be implemented by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) under the Commerce and Transport Department.

All notified bus stands under the scheme will function as public transport infrastructure, allowing both government and private operators to use the facilities, ensuring integrated and seamless transport services.

Rs 1,647 Cr Power Project For Keonjhar
In a separate key decision, the Cabinet also approved a ₹1,647-crore power infrastructure project for mineral-rich Keonjhar district to meet rising electricity demand.

The project includes the construction of a 2x500 MVA, 400/220/33 kV GIS substation at Basudevpur, along with associated transmission lines to strengthen power supply in the region.

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State To Provide 30% Equity Support
Of the total project cost, the Odisha government will provide 30 per cent equity support amounting to ₹494.10 crore.

The remaining Rs 1,152.90 crore will be mobilised by Odisha Power Transmission Corporation Limited (OPTCL) through loans from banks and financial institutions.

Three-Year Execution Timeline
The project will be implemented over a three-year period, from the 2026-27 financial year to 2028-29.

According to the Energy Department, the initiative is expected to ensure an uninterrupted power supply, supporting industrial expansion and driving economic growth in northern Odisha.