Finance
The State Cabinet approved the plan to introduce Mukhyamantri Bus Seva (MBS) throughout Odisha, with the goal of providing safe, dependable, economical, and efficient transportation to rural residents.
The project would improve existing rural connectivity by reducing operating expenses and modalities, as well as enhancing stakeholder consultations, to create a more inclusive and integrated transportation system.
The MBS will connect major economic areas, educational and medical hubs, and other points of public importance both within and outside the state. The government expects the project to create local jobs and boost small-scale companies through a well-coordinated transportation infrastructure. Furthermore, the effort will promote women’s empowerment and boost rural social security through gender inclusivity.
Women, transgender people, students, people with disabilities, and older citizens will be entitled for a 50% discount on ticket costs in both Non-AC and AC MBS services. The buses will be outfitted with advanced passenger safety measures like CCTV cameras, live vehicle monitoring, a passenger information system, and panic buttons. In addition, all MBS buses will be outfitted with the Advanced Driver Assistance System, which is a unique road safety measure.
The MBS will use the Gross Cost Contract Model, as per the guidelines of NITI Aayog, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
A strong institutional mechanism has been established to enable effective system monitoring and management, and the initiative will be assessed by the Evaluation Committee on a regular basis to make required course adjustments.
The government views transportation as a vital growth engine for economic development, and this program represents an important investment in improving Odisha’s rural transportation while also improving public welfare and empowerment. The MBS has the potential to elevate and develop Odisha’s population while also setting a high standard of service level benchmarks in the state for public transportation.
The Cabinet has approved the MBS for operation until FY 2032-33, and it will be extended depending on periodic reviews and citizen requests.
