Odisha ranks 5th in India in adoption of electric buses

Odisha has secured the fifth rank nationally in the adoption of electric buses (e-buses) in a step towards expanding the green mobility ecosystem in the urban transport system, a senior official claimed on Thursday.

Across the country, 14,329 e-buses are currently in operation, with Delhi (3,564), Maharashtra (3,296), Karnataka (2,236), and Uttar Pradesh (850) leading the pack.

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Odisha, ranked just behind these big states, has taken decisive steps to integrate sustainable and cost-effective electric mobility in urban areas. In the eastern region, Odisha has significantly outpaced neighbouring states—West Bengal (391), Andhra Pradesh (238), Chhattisgarh (215), and Jharkhand (46), added the official.

Stating that 450 e-buses are already on the roads, the official said plans are afoot to cross the 1,000 mark in terms of introduction in the coming years. The state is rapidly expanding its green mobility ecosystem to make cities cleaner, smarter, and more commuter-friendly.

To ensure seamless operations, charging stations are being set up at depots and terminals, while smart ticketing systems—including QR-based payments, NCMC cards, and app-enabled booking—are being introduced. Alongside, CRUT is investing in crew training and capacity building to deliver safe, reliable, and commuter-centric services.

Minister of Housing & Urban Development, Dr. Krushnachandra Mohapatra, highlighted Odisha’s green vision:

“Odisha’s rapid strides in e-mobility reflect our commitment to both the environment and the people. The expansion of e-buses is not just about technology—it is about providing dignified, affordable, and eco-friendly travel to every citizen”, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Krushnachandra Mohapatra said.

“E-bus services have become the backbone of modern urban transport in Odisha. By combining technology, smart ticketing, and green infrastructure, we are making mobility both convenient and sustainable. The enthusiastic response of commuters shows that Odisha is moving in the right direction—towards a future where public transport is the preferred choice”, Secretary, H and UD, Usha Padhee said.

Currently, e-buses in Odisha primarily serve commuters in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Puri, where affordable AC rides have encouraged citizens to shift from private to public transport. This growing acceptance demonstrates how green initiatives can align with public convenience and comfort, concluded Padhee.

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