Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi dedicated multiple development projects worth more than Rs 1,330 crore to the people during his visit to Keonjhar district.
During a development conclave held in the district, he laid foundation stones, inaugurated completed works, and announced new projects aimed at transforming Keonjhar’s infrastructure and public transport system. In total, 187 projects were covered under this initiative.
The CM also laid the foundation stone for 62 projects estimated at around Rs 705 crore. He also inaugurated 24 completed projects built at a cost of approximately Rs 251 crore. Additionally, he announced a new package of nearly Rs 375 crore for 101 fresh projects that are expected to accelerate the district’s overall development.
However, the major highlight of CM’s visit was the launch of the electric bus (e-bus) service in the district. CM Majhi flagged off 25 modern e-buses and inaugurated the newly constructed ‘Ama Bus’ Depot, built at a cost of Rs 17 crore. The new service promises affordable and comfortable travel, with bus fares starting at just Rs 5. All buses are fully air-conditioned and equipped with advanced safety features such as CCTV cameras, panic buttons, and GPS tracking to ensure secure journeys, particularly for women passengers.
The e-bus initiative also gives a strong push to women empowerment. Out of nearly 150 persons employed in the project, 30 women have been appointed as bus guides and two women as drivers. Chief Minister Majhi described this as a significant step that strengthens the state government’s ‘Mahila Shakti’ campaign.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that Keonjhar has contributed immensely to the state through its rich mineral resources, but the district had remained neglected in the past. He assured that development work has gained momentum since his government assumed office. He further announced that the process for establishing a mega steel plant in the district is in its final stage. Once operational, the plant will help transform the district into one of the most industrially prosperous regions in the country.
CM Majhi added that the coming decade will be the “Decade of Resolve” for Odisha, and Kendujhar will play a vital role in building a prosperous and developed state by 2036. He also highlighted the environmental benefits of the e-bus service, stating that it is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 330 to 390 tonnes annually. The government has allocated ₹238 crore for proper maintenance of the fleet and plans to expand the service to other cities in the state in the future.On the occasion, the Chief Minister distributed financial assistance amounting to ₹5,75,000 among six beneficiaries under various welfare schemes. These included marriage assistance, death assistance, and support under the ‘Udyami’ scheme for self-help groups and individuals.The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Keonjhar District Planning Committee Chairman Dr. Fakir Mohan Naik, MP Ananta Naik, Patna MLA Akhila Chandra Naik, Special Development Council Chairperson Mamita Naik, and District Collector Vishal Singh.This comprehensive development package is expected to significantly improve public transport, infrastructure, employment opportunities, and industrial growth in Kendujhar district.
CM further said this initiative is expected to strengthen the district’s infrastructure and bring widespread change to the lifestyle of the general public. A key highlight of this project is the participation of women power. In this bus service, women will be appointed as drivers and guides to showcase their skills. With ticket prices starting from just Rs 5 and digital payment facilities, it will be highly beneficial for students and labourers. The Chief Minister stated that from an environmental perspective, this e-bus service will help reduce carbon emissions by approximately 330 to 390 tonnes annually. He informed that in the coming days, this service will be expanded to other cities of the state, and an allocation of about Rs 238 crore has been made for proper maintenance.
The Chief Minister said that this initiative will position Odisha as a leading state in the country in the field of ‘Green Mobility’.
Appealing to the people of the district, the Chief Minister said that the next 10 years are a decade of resolve for Odisha. Keonjhar will play the most crucial role in building a prosperous Odisha by 2036.
On the occasion, CM Majhi distributed financial assistance amounting to Rs 5,75,000 among six beneficiaries under various welfare schemes. This included Rs 50,000 aid to Hemant Mahanta of Keonjhar as marriage assistance and Rs 3,05,000 to Labanga Mahanta as death benefit assistance. Similarly, under the ‘Udyami’ scheme, Rs 60,000 each was given to Maa Mangala SHG of Champua and Banita Naik of Joda, and Kedar Chandra Nayak of Jhumpura, while Neelam Mahakud received Rs 40,000 in financial assistance.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Keonjhar District Planning Committee Chairman Dr Fakir Mohan Nayak, MP Ananta Nayak, Patna MLA Akhila Chandra Naik, Special Development Council Chairperson Mamita Naik, and District Collector Vishal Singh.
