Keonjhar: In a major push to infrastructure and public transport, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple development projects in Keonjhar district. At an event, projects worth around ₹1,330.24 crore were launched, covering a total of 187 initiatives.

A key highlight of the event was the launch of a modern urban transport system. The Chief Minister flagged off 25 electric buses and inaugurated an ‘Ama Bus’ depot built at a cost of ₹17 crore. The move is expected to significantly upgrade public transport facilities in the district.

The newly introduced e-bus service has been designed to remain affordable, with fares starting from as low as ₹5. All buses are fully air-conditioned and equipped with safety features such as CCTV cameras, panic buttons and GPS tracking systems, ensuring safe travel, especially for women.

The initiative is also expected to boost employment. Around 150 people have been engaged under the scheme, including 30 women guides and two women drivers.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said Keonjhar had contributed significantly to the state but remained neglected in the past. He asserted that development in the district has gained momentum under the current government. He also informed that the process for setting up a mega steel plant in the district is in its final stage and will soon be launched.

Highlighting environmental benefits, he said the e-bus service is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 330 to 390 tonnes annually. Plans are also in place to expand the service to other cities, with an allocation of around ₹238 crore for maintenance and expansion.

Calling the next decade crucial for Odisha’s growth, the Chief Minister urged people to contribute towards building a prosperous state by 2036, stressing that Keonjhar will play a key role in this vision.