Bhubaneswar: A high level committee has been formed for ‘Ama Bus’ services in Odisha. It has been learnt that at least 30 old buses are going to be scrapped.
In the wake of a recent bus fire incident that took place all these steps are being taken for passenger security and swift Ama Bus services for the passengers.
As per information received, a high-level committee has been formed in this regard. In a meeting of the committee today discussions were held over various aspects of operations and safety measures of Ama Bus.
The meeting emphasized on road safety, passenger-friendly Ama Bus services, and the overall development and welfare of bus drivers.
According to the reports, the meeting was attended by Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur, CRUT Managing Director Sanjay Biswal, the DCP, Traffic DCP, and other senior officials.
In the meeting, the officials reviewed the speed limit compliance of Ama Buses that was made in the first two weeks of January. It was noted that no Ama Bus was found violating speed regulations during this period. Discussions were also held regarding proper halting of buses at designated bus stops.
To enhance driving skills and ensure disciplined driving behavior, electric buses will be provided to the Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR). Drivers will be able to undergo training within the campus for up to 180 kilometers daily, for which necessary infrastructure will be developed.
The government has also planned to set up multi-charging infrastructure at various locations in Chhatia, Berhampur, and Bonai. These charging stations will cater to both government and private electric vehicles.
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Additionally, from January 26, an incentive scheme will be introduced for Ama Bus captains and guides. Based on safe driving practices and performance evaluations from multiple parameters, incentives will be provided once every three months.
From February, passenger feedback will be collected on Ama Bus routes to further improve service quality. Meanwhile, the driver training duration has been increased from three days to five days.
Keeping passenger safety as the top priority, the department has decided to scrap 30 old BPTSCL buses that have already completed more than 1.5 lakh kilometers of operation.