Comprehensive Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has emerged as a leading example of sustainable and citizen-focused public transportation in India, transforming urban mobility across Odisha through electric mobility expansion, digital services, improved safety systems, and inclusive workforce development.

CRUT Expands Green Mobility Network Across Odisha

Between 2024 and April 2026, CRUT significantly expanded its public transport network, increasing its active fleet strength to 760 buses. The organisation has played a major role in accelerating Odisha’s shift towards clean and environmentally friendly transportation.

Electric bus services were introduced in Sambalpur and Berhampur in 2024, followed by the deployment of 80 midi electric buses in the Capital Region, five electric double-decker buses, 35 electric buses in Puri, and 100 electric buses in Naraj during 2025. In 2026, Keonjhar also became part of Odisha’s electric mobility network with the launch of 25 electric buses.

Modern Infrastructure Strengthens Public Transport

To support the growing fleet, CRUT has developed modern electric bus depots at Gadakana, Naraj, Puri, Sambalpur, Berhampur and Keonjhar.

The introduction of dedicated Electric Odisha Terminals at Chandrasekharpur and Master Canteen, along with 153 newly developed bus poles in Cuttack, has further strengthened the state’s public transport infrastructure.

Government Focus on Sustainable Urban Mobility

Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said Odisha is committed to providing safe, affordable, eco-friendly and technology-enabled transport services to citizens.

He highlighted that CRUT’s achievements in electric mobility, digital innovation and commuter-friendly services are helping build greener, smarter and more inclusive cities.

Ridership Crosses Three Lakh Daily Mark

CRUT’s modernisation efforts have increased public confidence, with the organisation now recording an average daily ridership of more than three lakh passengers.

Digital transactions have also grown significantly, accounting for nearly 45% of fare collections, reflecting increased acceptance of cashless and technology-based travel solutions.

Digital Services Improve Passenger Experience

CRUT has introduced several digital initiatives to make commuting easier. The Ama Bus ticketing platform has recorded more than 90,000 ticket transactions and now provides online booking facilities for the Chilika boating service at Satapada.

Automatic Ticket Vending Machines have simplified ticket purchases, while WhatsApp-based ticket booking through ONDC has made travel planning more convenient. CRUT has also expanded digital passes and introduced the National Common Mobility Card for integrated cashless travel.

Future Expansion with PM eBus Sewa and Hydrogen Buses

CRUT is preparing for its next phase of growth under the Government of India’s PM eBus Sewa Scheme. The organisation plans to deploy 400 additional electric buses across Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Sambalpur and Berhampur.

Odisha is also set to enter a new phase of clean transportation with the planned introduction of three Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Buses supported by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

Odisha Yatri Boosts Transport Workers’ Earnings

Beyond city bus services, CRUT has expanded its impact through Odisha Yatri, a zero-commission ride-hailing platform for cabs and auto-rickshaws.

Operational in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri and Sambalpur, the platform has empowered 16,779 drivers to collectively earn more than ₹11.65 crore in commission-free income.

Enhanced Safety Through Technology

Passenger safety has received a major boost through CRUT’s integrated Command and Control Centre, which enables real-time monitoring and tracking of buses through GPS and Vehicle Location Tracking systems.

A dedicated women’s safety module has also been introduced with features such as SOS activation, emergency response support, live location sharing and quick assistance mechanisms.

Focus on Skill Development and Women Participation

Human resource development remains a key priority for CRUT. More than 6,000 crew members have undergone training and capacity-building programmes since 2024.

In a major step towards gender inclusion, 20 women Heavy Motor Vehicle drivers received specialised training to operate electric buses, creating new opportunities for women in the transport sector.

National Recognition for CRUT’s Achievements

CRUT’s efforts have earned national appreciation from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. The organisation was awarded “City with the Best Public Transport System” at the Urban Mobility India Awards 2024 and received a Special Mention at the Urban Mobility India Awards 2025.

Odisha Moves Towards a Cleaner Urban Future

With continued focus on electric mobility, digital innovation, passenger safety and social inclusion, CRUT is setting new benchmarks in public transportation and steering Odisha towards a smarter, cleaner and more sustainable urban future.

Bhubaneswar Metro Project Contracts Cancelled Over Delays and Payment Issues

OdishaConnect — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 13:14:50 +0000

Metro Contracts Terminated for Non-Compliance

The Odisha government has officially cancelled contracts awarded to Ceigall India Limited and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project, citing repeated delays and failure to honor contractual obligations, including payment commitments. The decision was taken on June 7, 2025, dealing a major setback to the state’s flagship urban transport initiative.

The terminated contract involved the design and construction of an elevated viaduct and six elevated metro stations: Nandan Vihar, Raghunathpur, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Barang, Phulapokhari, and Trisulia Square.

Foundation Laid by Naveen Patnaik; Now in Limbo

The Bhubaneswar Metro project was inaugurated with much fanfare by then Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on January 1, 2024, with the aim of improving connectivity between Biju Patnaik International Airport and Trisulia Square. Spanning a 26-km corridor with 20 stations, the project had an estimated cost of Rs 6,255 crore.

However, slow execution and poor coordination have dogged progress. Allegations surfaced that Ceigall and DMRC were distracted by their involvement in the 2028 Games infrastructure, which impacted the quality and timeliness of work.

No Clarity Yet on Metro Alignment

A high-level sub-committee meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo on July 16, 2025, discussed the status of the metro project. However, no decision was made regarding the mode of construction — whether the corridor will be elevated or underground — or the final route alignment.

The meeting largely focused on broader goals such as decongesting city traffic, urban mobility integration, and long-term infrastructure development for Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.

Ceigall Reacts, Seeks Compensation

Ceigall India Limited, one of the main contractors, confirmed the cancellation and announced it would seek damages and compensation as per the terms of the contract. Their Rs 898.99 crore agreement included critical components of the metro infrastructure, including stations and viaducts.

Social media reactions indicate widespread public disappointment. An X (formerly Twitter) post went viral with users claiming the project now feels “dead,” and fears that traffic congestion in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack will worsen.

State Promises Revised Plan, Center Awaits Proposal

Deputy Urban Development Minister Usha Devi said the state is working on a revised metro blueprint, which will be submitted to the Central Government for fresh budget approval. “A modern, time-bound metro plan is in progress. With central cooperation, we aim to deliver the metro system the state needs,” she said.

However, Union Minister Tokhan Sahu stated that as of July 24, 2025, the Centre had not received any formal proposal from the Odisha government, casting uncertainty over the immediate future of the project.

Future of Urban Mobility in the Balance

The termination of the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail contracts marks a significant disruption in Odisha’s urban mobility vision. Yet, the state’s commitment to redrawing the plan and reissuing tenders suggests that a rebooted, more efficient metro project could emerge.

Urban planning experts believe that with a well-drafted Detailed Project Report (DPR), clearer timelines, and stronger execution monitoring, Odisha still has a chance to meet its sustainable transportation goals in the coming years.

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CRUT Redefines Urban Mobility in Odisha with Electric Buses, Digital Innovation and Inclusive Transport