Bhubaneswar: The State Cabinet has approved the proposal to implement Mukhyamantri Bus Seva (MBS) across Odisha, aiming to provide safe, reliable, affordable, and efficient transport services to people in rural areas.
The scheme will strengthen existing rural connectivity by rationalizing operational costs and modalities, and through better stakeholder consultations for a more inclusive and coordinated transport system.
The MBS will connect important business centers, educational and medical hubs, and other places of public interest within and outside the state. The government expects the scheme to generate local employment opportunities and promote small-scale industries through a well-coordinated transport system. Additionally, the initiative will promote women empowerment and strengthen social security of the rural mass through gender inclusiveness.
Under the scheme, women, transgender, students, persons with disability, and senior citizens will be eligible for a 50% concession in ticket fares in both Non-AC and AC MBS services. The buses will be equipped with advanced passenger safety features such as CCTV cameras, live vehicle tracking, passenger information system, and panic buttons. Furthermore, the Advanced Driver Assistance System will be integrated into all MBS buses as an innovative road safety measure.
The MBS will operate under the Gross Cost Contract Model, in line with the guidelines of NITI Aayog, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. A robust institutional mechanism has been set up to ensure efficient monitoring and management of the system, and the initiative will be periodically reviewed by the Evaluation Committee for necessary course corrections.
The government considers transportation a major growth engine for economic development, and this initiative represents a critical investment in enhancing Odisha’s rural transportation with enhanced public welfare and empowerment. The MBS has the potential for upliftment and growth for Odisha’s population and will set a high standard of service level benchmarking in the state with respect to public transportation.
The MBS has been approved by the Cabinet for operation till FY 2032-33 and will be extended based on periodic review and requirement of the citizens.
