Shubhalakshmi Mahananda: Odisha’s First Woman Electric Bus Driver Breaks Gender Barriers

Shubhalakshmi Mahananda from Kendujhar is challenging traditional gender stereotypes by becoming Odisha’s first woman to drive an electric bus. Working with Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), she is demonstrating how the transition to cleaner public transport can create new employment opportunities for women.

Driving an electric bus requires technical knowledge, alertness, discipline and a strong sense of responsibility for passenger safety. Through specialised training and practical experience, Shubhalakshmi has taken on these responsibilities in a profession traditionally dominated by men.

Her achievement goes beyond an individual milestone. By entering a non-traditional occupation, she is challenging established perceptions about women’s roles and inspiring others to consider careers previously viewed as inaccessible to them.

Kendujhar Expands Electric Bus Services

Kendujhar currently has 25 electric buses and a dedicated Ama Bus depot, reflecting the expansion of cleaner public transport beyond Odisha’s major urban centres.

Electric buses can help reduce tailpipe emissions and improve local air quality while providing a more sustainable mode of transportation. Shubhalakshmi’s journey highlights how this transition can also support workplace diversity and social inclusion.

Her presence behind the wheel sends a powerful message that professional opportunities should be determined by skills and capabilities rather than gender.

Odisha to Host Urban Mobility Conference

Shubhalakshmi’s achievement comes ahead of the 19th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference and Expo 2026, scheduled to be held in Bhubaneswar on October 23 and 24. Bhubaneswar will become the first city in eastern India to host the event.

This year’s theme, “Urban Accessibility & Liveability in the Digital Age,” focuses on developing transport systems that are sustainable, accessible and inclusive.

Her story highlights an important dimension of India’s mobility transition: progress should be measured not only by technological advancements but also by the opportunities created for people.

As Odisha expands its electric public transport network, Shubhalakshmi Mahananda stands as an example of how environmental progress and women’s empowerment can advance together.