Bhubaneswar: Odisha has emerged as a frontrunner in sustainable urban transport, securing the fifth position in India in the adoption of electric buses (e-buses).
With 450 e-buses already on the roads and plans to cross the 1,000-mark in the coming years, the state is rapidly expanding its green mobility ecosystem to make cities cleaner, smarter, and more commuter-friendly.
Across the country, 14,329 e-buses are currently in operation, with Delhi (3,564), Maharashtra (3,296), Karnataka (2,236), and Uttar Pradesh (850) leading the pack. Odisha, ranked just behind these big states, has taken decisive steps to integrate sustainable and cost-effective electric mobility in urban areas. In the eastern region, Odisha has significantly outpaced neighbouring states, including West Bengal (391), Andhra Pradesh (238), Chhattisgarh (215), and Jharkhand (46).
The Central government, under schemes like PM-e Bus Service and PM-e-Drive, is providing financial assistance to states. Odisha’s Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has been proactive in leveraging this support, while also preparing for an ambitious expansion of services to Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, Berhampur, and Angul.
To ensure seamless operations, charging stations are being set up at depots and terminals, while smart ticketing systems—including QR-based payments, NCMC cards, and app-enabled booking—are being introduced. Alongside, CRUT is investing in crew training and capacity building to deliver safe, reliable, and commuter-centric services.
Housing & Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra highlighted Odisha’s green vision: “Odisha’s rapid strides in e-mobility reflect our commitment to both the environment and the people. The expansion of e-buses is not just about technology—it is about providing dignified, affordable, and eco-friendly travel to every citizen. Under the leadership of the Chief Minister, our endeavour is to build urban centres that are cleaner, greener, and sustainable for future generations.”
Principal Secretary, H&UD, Usha Padhee, stressed the importance of integrated planning. “E-bus services have become the backbone of modern urban transport in Odisha. By combining technology, smart ticketing, and green infrastructure, we are making mobility both convenient and sustainable. The enthusiastic response of commuters shows that Odisha is moving in the right direction—towards a future where public transport is the preferred choice.”
Currently, e-buses in Odisha primarily serve commuters in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Puri, where affordable AC rides have encouraged citizens to shift from private to public transport. This growing acceptance demonstrates how green initiatives can align with public convenience and comfort.
As Odisha continues to expand its e-bus fleet, the state is also aligning with NITI Aayog’s national target of 50,000 e-buses, ensuring that it contributes substantially to India’s climate commitments while meeting the transport needs of its growing urban population.
With sustained efforts from CRUT, strong policy backing from the State Government, and central support, Odisha is well on its way to becoming a model state for green mobility in India.
