Bhubaneswar: The Comprehensive Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has deployed 50 Ama Buses on special routes connecting Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Khordha and adjoining areas with Puri to facilitate safe, comfortable and hassle-free travel for devotees during the Bahuda Yatra.
The special services will operate on multiple routes, including DD1 between Shree Mandira Parking and Master Canteen, the Airport Shuttle connecting Master Canteen with Biju Patnaik International Airport, and several express and feeder services linking Talabania Bus Stand with Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Khordha, Jagatpur, Mahanadi Vihar, Astaranga, Satapada, Madhava Temple and Nimapada.
In addition to the special Ama Bus services, CRUT has also deployed 15 buses provided by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) to operate a free shuttle service within Puri. The shuttle buses will run every 10 minutes from 6 am to 10 pm between Samanga Parking and Sterling Parking via Mangalaghat, providing last-mile connectivity for devotees while helping ease traffic congestion during the festival.
To ensure smooth operations, CRUT has conducted special pre-festival training for its Captains and Guides. The programme covered vehicle familiarisation, pre-trip inspections, defensive driving, lane discipline, traffic regulations, emergency response and fire safety to prepare the crew for the expected surge in passenger traffic. All buses have also undergone comprehensive mechanical and safety inspections before being pressed into service.
Official sources said CRUT has kept its operations, maintenance and field teams on high alert to ensure uninterrupted services throughout the festival period. Dedicated personnel have been deployed at major boarding points to assist passengers and facilitate smooth movement of buses.
The fare for the Express Special Services will remain unchanged, with passengers paying the existing fare. Commuters have also been advised to remain vigilant and keep a close watch on their personal belongings during the festival rush.
For route information and assistance, passengers can contact the Ama Bus Helpline at 1800-570-0218 and follow CRUT’s official social media channels for service updates.
