Odisha Government to Boost Bus Services to Major Pilgrimage Sites Including Ayodhya, Tirupati, Vrindavan & Ujjain

The Odisha government plans to increase the number of government buses and connect the state with major pilgrimage sites across the country. This initiative, led by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC), will see buses designated to transport devotees to various religious places.

First Phase of Implementation

Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena announced, “In the first phase, we plan to start bus services to pilgrimage sites like Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Mathura (Shri Mandir) in Uttar Pradesh, Ujjain, Mahakaleshwar in Madhya Pradesh, and Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh.” This statement was made to the media on Monday.

Future Expansion

In subsequent phases, bus services will expand to connect Odisha to other important religious sites. Jena added, “Our top priority is to provide bus service to everyone in the state.” Efforts will also be made to increase OSRTC revenue and profitability, similar to the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC).

Interstate Bus Operations

According to sources, Andhra Pradesh is hesitant to allow private buses from Odisha to operate between the two states because it could impact APSRTC revenue. Thus, OSRTC bus services will eventually expand to Andhra Pradesh and other neighboring states.

Current Bus Fleet and Special Arrangements

Currently, OSRTC operates at least 478 buses. For the upcoming Rath Yatra festival on July 7, the government intends to provide bus services from every block headquarters to Puri.

Introduction of Electric Buses

To establish a permanent public transportation system, Odisha’s government will introduce more electric buses. Additionally, e-buses will be deployed in locations with EV charging infrastructure for interstate travel. Jena elaborated, “We are hopeful of receiving a substantial number of vehicles under the PM-eBus Sewa scheme.”

New Bus Routes

The minister also stated that OSRTC bus service will soon begin between Umerkote and Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar and Machkund, and Cuttack and Baliguda.

Meeting with Officials

On the same day, Jena engaged with Transport Secretary Usha Padhi, Commissioner Amitabh Thakur, and OSRTC officials to discuss improving bus services in the state.

This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing public transportation and connecting Odisha with key pilgrimage destinations across India.