Bhubaneswar: On the occasion of Local Self-Governance Day, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday inaugurated a host of modern, commuter-centric initiatives under the ‘Ama Bus’ service, aimed at enhancing the public transportation experience across the state.
Launched by the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) under the Housing and Urban Development Department, the new services include the introduction of the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), WhatsApp-based ticket booking, and digital ticketing concessions, among others.
The ‘Ama Bus’ service, a flagship initiative of the state government, has now expanded its offerings to ensure seamless, safe, and dignified travel for passengers of all categories.
Discounts for Digital Commuters
With a focus on promoting digital adoption, the government has announced special fare concessions through digital ticketing. Female passengers will receive a 15% discount, while general passengers can avail a 10% discount on digital tickets.
The digital pass system has also been extended to Brahmapur, Sambalpur, and Rourkela, enabling a wider population to benefit from the improved public transport infrastructure.
Odisha Joins ‘One Nation, One Card’ Initiative
Odisha has officially joined the Centre’s ‘One Nation, One Card’ initiative under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The scheme allows passengers to use a single mobility card for travel across major Indian cities.
Implemented through a joint effort by the State Bank of India and Airtel Payments Bank, the NCMC card is priced at Rs 50, with a reissue fee of Rs 200 and a validity of five years. The card can be used for travel across buses, metro rail, and other NCMC-integrated systems.
Revamped Digital Pass System
CRUT has updated its digital pass system to accommodate all types of passengers. While smartphone users can continue using the ‘Ama Bus’ mobile application, a card-based pass system is now available for those without smartphones or Android devices. This pass can be used in all cities where Ama Bus operates.
WhatsApp & App-Based Ticketing Introduced
In a major tech upgrade, WhatsApp-based ticket booking has been launched. Commuters can now book tickets easily by messaging 9078050218 or searching for Capital Region Urban Transport on WhatsApp.
Additionally, ticket booking is now integrated with the Odisha Yatri mobile application, providing commuters with greater flexibility and ease of access.
Where to Get the NCMC Card
Passengers can obtain the NCMC card at the following CRUT locations:
- Bhubaneswar (Patia)
- Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bus Terminal (BSABT)
- Odisha Terminal, Master Canteen
- Cuttack Netaji Bus Terminal
- Puri Bus Stand
- Rourkela Bus Stand
- Sambalpur Ainthapali Bus Stand
- Brahmapur Railway Station
The launch event was attended by several senior officials, including Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Bhubaneswar (Ekamra) MLA Babu Singh, Principal Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department Usha Padhee, and other dignitaries.
These initiatives represent a significant step towards modern urban mobility and the continued development of Odisha and India.
