Women to Get Free AMA Bus Rides Across Odisha on Raksha Bandhan

Bhubaneswar: Women passengers will be allowed to travel free of charge on AMA Bus services across seven major cities in Odisha on August 27, marking the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, the Comprehensive Region Urban Transport (CRUT) announced.

The initiative has been introduced as a special festive measure to encourage safe, convenient and accessible public transportation for women. Under the scheme, female commuters will not have to pay fares while using AMA Bus services in Bhubaneswar, Kataka, Puri, Raurkela, Sambalpur, Brahmapur and Kendujhar.

According to CRUT, the initiative is expected to benefit around one lakh women commuters across the state during the day.

Raksha Bandhan symbolises protection, affection and mutual trust. CRUT said the fare-free travel initiative seeks to reflect these values through public transport by making mobility safer and more convenient for women.

The move also supports the Odisha government’s broader efforts towards women’s empowerment and improving their access to essential public services. It is expected to complement schemes such as the Subhadra Scheme by facilitating easier travel for women for personal, family, social and economic activities.

The special fare exemption will remain in effect throughout August 27 on AMA Bus routes operating across the seven cities.