Once celebrated as a gamechanger in Odisha’s public transport system, the Ama Bus service is today caught between public appreciation for improved connectivity and growing anxiety over safety lapses. With nearly 600 buses operating across cities, the fleet expanded rapidly in recent years — but so did the accidents.What began as an initiative to offer affordable, reliable and eco-friendly transport has now triggered statewide debates, high court interventions and a renewed push for driver training, monitoring and fleet restructuring.Last July, a TOI report highlighting rising accidents involving Ama Buses prompted the Orissa high court to take suo motu cognisance. Expressing “serious concern”, the court summoned CRUT authorities and directed immediate corrective steps, such as installing CCTV cameras inside buses, conducting regular breath analyser tests and developing sensors capable of detecting intoxicated drivers.Yet, the accidents continued. On Jan 3, when an Ama Bus rammed into an auto-rickshaw at Rupali Square, killing the auto driver on the spot, there was public outrage and intensified calls for accountability, prompting a swift response from CM Mohan Charan Majhi, who directed strict enforcement of safety norms, mandatory alcohol testing of drivers and enhanced training modules for staff.Soon after, the commerce and transport department launched extensive inspections of Ama Bus drivers across Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. Transport secretary Usha Padhee convened a meeting that led to the formation of a steering committee that now oversees everything from accident response to route operations.The measures being rolled out reflect a shift from reactive policing to systemic reform. Key decisions include the induction of additional mini-buses to enhance last-mile connectivity and improve operational efficiency, tighter driver recruitment followed by a five-day evaluation testing skills in road safety, lane discipline, behavioural conduct and situational awareness, daily practical e-bus training and more.“We are confident that with these steps things will come under control,” transport secretary Usha Padhee said.
