Sambalpur: Lakshmi Bus Service Remains Suspended for 8 Months; Despite Assembly Assurances, Government Buses Yet to Resume

Bus Service Launched for Rural Areas

Sambalpur: The previous Odisha government introduced the ‘Lakshmi Bus Service’ to improve transportation in rural areas. This initiative allowed people in villages to access bus services near their homes instead of traveling 8-10 kilometers to the nearest stop. As a result, many rural areas were directly connected to district headquarters.

New Government Discontinues Services

However, after the new government took office, it changed the bus service name and discontinued some routes. One of the affected buses connected Sambalpur city to Rengali, Kuchinda, and the district border areas. This air-conditioned bus, operated by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC), ran from Sambalpur through Rengali, Basupali, Junadihi, Laida, Purunapani, Kuturachuan, Satkama, and Kuchinda, reaching Bamara on the district’s border. Unfortunately, this service has been suspended since July last year, leaving local people struggling with severe transportation issues.

MLA Raises the Issue in Assembly

Rengali MLA Sudarshan Haripal raised the issue in the Assembly session, demanding the immediate resumption of the bus service. The minister stated that the route permit had expired, and the company had already submitted an application for renewal. The minister assured that once the authorities granted the permit, the company would resume the bus service.

Seven Months Passed, No Action Taken

However, seven months have passed since the minister’s response, but the bus service has not resumed. Many citizens are now questioning how long it will take to get the permit. People are also doubting the value of Assembly discussions and government assurances since no action has been taken yet. Some locals believe that private bus operators conspired to stop the government bus service to protect their business interests.

Severe Impact on Commuters

This government bus service was crucial because no other buses operate on this route. Its suspension has severely impacted people traveling between Sambalpur, Dhankauda, Rengali, Kuchinda, and Bamra blocks. Earlier, residents could travel quickly and affordably, but now there are no buses between Rengali and Kuchinda or Bamra. The lack of transportation has caused major difficulties for local people.

Repeated Requests Ignored

Despite repeated demands to the District Collector, no action has been taken. Frustrated by this delay, MLA Haripal raised the issue in the Assembly again. However, officials are not taking the minister’s words seriously, as evident from the continued suspension of the service.

Public Demands Immediate Action

Local residents are now demanding that the government fulfill its promise and resume the bus service immediately in the interest of the people.