Bhubaneswar: Odisha has emerged as a frontrunner in sustainable urban transport, securing the fifth position in India in the adoption of electric buses (e-buses).With 450 e-buses already on the roads and plans to cross the 1,000 mark in the coming years, the state is rapidly expanding its green mobility ecosystem to make cities cleaner, smarter, and more commuter-friendly.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. 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).The Central Government, under schemes like PM-e Bus Service and PM-e-Drive, is providing financial assistance to states. Odisha’s Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has been proactive in leveraging this support, while also preparing for an ambitious expansion of services to Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, Berhampur, and Angul.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 Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, 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. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, our endeavour is to build urban centres that are cleaner, greener, and sustainable for future generations.”