Odisha CM Launches Double-Decker and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Services

Bhubaneswar, Jan 7 (UNI): Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated Odisha’s first-ever Double-Decker bus service along with Hop-On Hop-Off (HOHO) buses and Shree Jagannatha Temple Administration (SJTA) E-Bus services, marking a significant step toward sustainable urban transportation.

Launching the services at the Mo Bus Depot in Gadakana, the Chief Minister emphasized the benefits of these initiatives, including improved connectivity, reduced traffic congestion, and lower carbon emissions.

A total of five Double-Decker buses, ten HOHO buses, and 25 SJTA E-Buses will operate across the Capital Region. The Double-Decker buses will connect Bhubaneswar, Puri, Cuttack, and Khordha, offering a unique travel experience to residents and visitors.

The HOHO buses are designed for tourists, covering major attractions in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. This flexible service allows travelers to explore the cities at their own pace, enhancing their cultural and historical journey.

The SJTA E-Buses will facilitate greener travel within Puri and between Puri and Bhubaneswar. These buses are equipped with ramps for wheelchair access, making them inclusive for all passengers.

The Double-Decker buses will function as express services, with fares ranging from ₹30 to ₹170. Meanwhile, the HOHO service offers a one-day unlimited travel pass priced at ₹200. An introductory waiver on the ₹50 card fee is available until January 31, 2025.

Inaugurating the service, Chief Minister Majhi and Cabinet Ministers took a ride on a Double-Decker bus to Janata Maidan, showcasing the convenience and appeal of the new service.

These initiatives are expected to boost urban mobility while promoting sustainable and inclusive transportation options for Odisha’s residents and visitors.