Argus News - Odisha’s Super 20! Women Drivers Ready to Lead Ama Bus’ EV Fleet in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, Feb 18: Taking a significant step toward building a gender-inclusive public transport system, 20 women drivers from Odisha have successfully completed the advanced EV bus training.

The 14-day training programme, a part of the state’s flagship ‘Ama Bus’ service expansion and empowering women, was conducted under the initiative of Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT).

The selected drivers, all holding valid heavy vehicle licenses, underwent the advanced training programme at the “Ekka Mobility” plant in Pune from February 2 to 14. The training, supported by GIZ, focused on EV bus operations, safety protocols, advanced driving practices, and modern city bus management.

Also read: Big Bash League in India! What We Know So Far

Now that they have returned to Odisha, the drivers will undergo a 15-day local practice and route familiarization exercise before being formally inducted into the Ama Bus fleet.

“The initiative is not just about training women to drive buses but about creating leadership opportunities, respect, and equal participation in public services,” stated Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department. “These women will serve as role models, inspiring others to step forward and join the workforce,” she noted.

Following successful field practice and evaluation, the trained drivers will be deployed as dedicated women bus operators in the Ama Bus service. This marks a milestone in CRUT’s roadmap for inclusive transport, ensuring safer, more reliable, and future-ready urban commuting options.

The programme also opens up sustainable livelihood opportunities for women in the public transport sector, reinforcing Odisha’s commitment to gender equality and progressive urban development.

This initiative is expected to set a precedent for other states, showcasing how inclusive policies can transform public transport into a safer and more empowering space for women.