Bhubaneswar: Odisha Cabinet on Friday cleared ‘Atal Bus Stand (ABS)’ scheme proposal to transform public transport infrastructure across the state, with a total approved budget of Rs 3,400 crore till the 2031-32 financial year.

The scheme aims to modernise, renovate, operate and manage bus stands at district headquarters, sub-divisional headquarters, block headquarters, urban local bodies and key tourist and strategic locations.

Unified management for all public bus stands

Under the scheme, all public bus stands in Odisha will be brought under a single umbrella for uniform development and management. This includes existing bus stands developed under earlier schemes as well as those under Urban Local Bodies.

The move is aimed at ensuring consistency in infrastructure standards, maintenance, operations and passenger services across the state.

Bus stands to be classified based on need

The government said bus stands under the Atal Bus Stand scheme will be developed in “A”, “B” and “C” categories depending on passenger demand, transport needs and regional importance.

This classification is expected to help tailor facilities and investments based on local requirements.

Focus on convenience, revenue and sustainability

The scheme is designed to improve operational efficiency, strengthen financial planning and enhance revenue generation from transport hubs.

It also seeks to improve passenger convenience, reduce liabilities and ensure environmentally sustainable infrastructure development. Officials said the initiative would promote inclusive growth, strengthen connectivity and support the state’s broader economic development goals.

OSRTC to implement scheme

The ‘Atal Bus Stand’ scheme will be implemented by Odisha State Road Transport Corporation under the Commerce and Transport Department.

The government said all bus stands included under the scheme will be officially notified as public transport infrastructure and can be used by both government and private bus operators to provide integrated and seamless public transport services.