CRUT Announces Eight New Ama Bus Routes in Odisha
CRUT announces eight new Ama bus routes in Odisha covering Angul, Jharsuguda, Jajpur, Keonjhar, Baripada, Jeypore (Koraput), Balasore, and Rayagada.
The Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has announced the expansion of its ‘Ama Bus’ service to eight additional locations in Odisha, significantly improving connectivity and accessibility for commuters.
The eight new Ama bus routes will cover Angul, Jharsuguda, Jajpur, Keonjhar, Baripada, Jeypore (Koraput), Balasore, and Rayagada.
The decision was taken during the 49th Board Meeting of CRUT, chaired by Odisha Development Commissioner and CRUT Chairperson Anu Garg.
Along with introducing the eight new Ama bus routes, the meeting also focused on strengthening urban transportation in the state, emphasizing safety and service quality.
Key Highlights of the Meeting
1. Strengthening Safety Measures
- Speed Limits for Buses: CRUT has introduced regulated speed limits for different bus types to ensure commuter safety:
- Electric buses – 35 km/h
- Diesel buses (City routes) – 40 km/h
- Diesel buses (Intercity highways) – 50 km/h
- Driver Training: Regular training programs will be held for bus Captains, covering safe driving practices, behavioral training, first-aid, and the operation of electric buses.
- ADAS & Dash Cams: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and dash cameras are being tested in eight buses as part of a proof-of-concept trial to enhance safety monitoring.
- Accident Review Committee: A dedicated team under the State Transport Authority will investigate and analyze all bus-related accidents, with monthly safety reviews to implement improvements.
2. Toll-Free Assistance Number Introduced
A toll-free helpline, 18005700218, has been launched to provide commuter support from 6 AM to 10 PM, ensuring better passenger assistance.
3. Standardized Crew Hiring Process
To ensure professionalism and safety, CRUT will introduce a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for hiring and training bus Captains and Guides. New recruits will undergo training at the HMV Driving Training Institute before being assigned to routes.
4. Expansion of Pass System to More Cities
CRUT’s existing pass system, which is currently available only in the Capital Region, will soon be extended to Rourkela, Sambalpur, Berhampur, and other cities where the Ama Bus service operates.
5. Incentives for Top-Performing Bus Staff
A Key Performance Indicator (KPI)-based incentive system will be introduced to reward high-performing bus Captains and Guides. This initiative aims to enhance service quality, passenger satisfaction, safety compliance, and operational efficiency.
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A Safer and More Efficient Public Transport Network
With the expansion of Ama Bus services to more cities, the introduction of safety-focused measures, and enhanced training protocols for staff, CRUT is committed to delivering a safer, more efficient, and commuter-friendly public transport system for the people of Odisha.
