In a strategic move to bolster road safety, the Odisha government has decided to induct women drivers into the operations of the state-managed ‘Ama’ bus fleet.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting on Tuesday, chaired by Housing and Urban Development Minister Krishna Chandra Mahapatra.
Focusing on the goals of gender-inclusive employment and women’s safety, the Minister emphasised that recruiting women drivers is a priority for the Ama bus service. He noted that this shift highlights the state’s commitment to creating a safer and more diverse workforce in public transportation.
As part of the initial rollout, 20 female candidates from Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), which operates the Ama bus service, will be sent to Pune on January 31. There, they will undergo specialised training focused on the operation of electric buses.
The policy shift follows significant public concern regarding road safety after a fatal collision on January 3 at Rupali Square in Bhubaneswar. The accident, which involved an Ama bus, tragically resulted in the death of an autorickshaw driver.
To ensure long-term standards, Mahapatra also revealed plans for a dedicated driver training institute to be located at the CRUT depot premises. The facility will provide comprehensive instruction on practical driving skills, behavioural training, traffic laws, lane discipline and road safety.
During the meeting, the Minister conducted a thorough review of the Ama bus operational framework. Discussions centred on structural upgrades and safety protocols designed to modernise and improve the reliability of public transit throughout the state.
Emphasising passenger safety, Mahapatra noted that alcohol consumption is one of the leading factors in road accidents. Consequently, he informed that breathalyser tests are now a mandatory requirement for all Ama bus personnel.
“Over the last one year, 1.97 lakh alcohol tests have been conducted through checks at the beginning and end of trips, as well as random inspections during operational hours,” he said.
Data from these screenings revealed that 19 drivers were found to be under the influence of alcohol. In accordance with legal provisions, they were arrested and their driving licences were suspended for three months, he said.
