Odisha CM Unveils ‘Ama Bus’ Modernization on Local Self-Governance Day
NCMC, WhatsApp ticketing, and digital discounts launched to make bus travel seamless, safe, and commuter-friendly.
Bhubaneswar : On the occasion of Local Self-Governance Day, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated a series of commuter-centric services under the state government’s flagship ‘Ama Bus’ initiative. The new measures, designed to improve urban mobility and public transport convenience, mark a significant upgrade to the way people in Odisha experience bus travel.
The Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) under the Housing and Urban Development Department rolled out the initiatives, including the launch of the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), WhatsApp-based ticket booking, updated digital pass systems, and fare concessions for digital commuters.
With the launch of the NCMC, Odisha has officially joined the Centre’s ‘One Nation, One Card’ initiative envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This integration will allow passengers in Odisha to travel across major Indian cities using a single card for buses, metro, and other NCMC-enabled systems. The card, issued through a collaboration with State Bank of India and Airtel Payments Bank, is available at Rs 50, with a reissue fee of Rs 200 and five years of validity. CRUT has set up distribution counters at key bus terminals and railway stations in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, Rourkela, Sambalpur, and Brahmapur to make the card easily accessible.
Digital Discounts to Encourage Smart Travel
To encourage digital adoption, the Odisha government announced special discounts for passengers booking digital tickets. Female commuters will receive a 15 percent concession, while general passengers will get 10 percent off when opting for digital ticketing. The digital pass facility, already active in Bhubaneswar, has now been expanded to Brahmapur, Sambalpur, and Rourkela, ensuring that a larger section of passengers can enjoy the benefits of cashless, seamless travel.
Revamped Pass System for All
CRUT has also upgraded its digital pass system to include all passenger categories. While smartphone users can continue using the ‘Ama Bus’ app, a card-based pass system has been launched for those without smartphones. This hybrid approach ensures that every commuter, tech-savvy or otherwise, can benefit from the modernized system.
WhatsApp and App-Based Ticketing
One of the most significant upgrades is the introduction of WhatsApp-based ticket booking. Commuters can now book their tickets by simply sending a message to 9078050218 or by searching for Capital Region Urban Transport on WhatsApp. Additionally, booking services have been fully integrated with the Odisha Yatri mobile application, offering passengers multiple user-friendly options for reserving their journeys.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said the upgrades were aimed at making public transport in Odisha more inclusive, dignified, and efficient. The initiatives are designed to ensure that passengers of all backgrounds can travel seamlessly and safely, with special attention to the needs of women and senior citizens. Bhubaneswar (Ekamra) MLA Babu Singh, Principal Secretary Usha Padhee, and senior officials of CRUT were also present at the launch event.
Where to Get the NCMC Card
Passengers can get their 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, and Brahmapur Railway Station.
The launch of these services represents a major leap in modernizing Odisha’s public transport network. By embracing digital tools, reducing reliance on cash transactions, and joining national mobility initiatives, Odisha is aligning itself with India’s vision of smart, sustainable, and commuter-friendly urban infrastructure. Officials expressed confidence that these upgrades will not only improve passenger convenience but also enhance public trust in state-run transport, making buses the preferred mode of travel for lakhs of citizens.
