Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday inaugurated, laid foundation stones and announced development projects worth over ₹1,330 crore during his visit to Keonjhar district, according to an official release.
At a development programme, the Chief Minister unveiled a total of 187 projects with an estimated outlay of ₹1,330.24 crore. This included foundation laying for 62 projects worth around ₹705 crore and inauguration of 24 completed projects built at a cost of about ₹251 crore. In addition, a package of approximately ₹375 crore was announced for 101 new projects.
As part of efforts to strengthen urban mobility, Majhi also launched a smart public transport system in the district with the introduction of 25 modern e-buses. A new ‘Ama Bus’ depot, constructed at a cost of ₹17 crore, was also inaugurated.
The e-bus service will offer fares starting from ₹5, aimed at benefiting daily commuters, particularly those from low and middle-income groups. All buses are fully air-conditioned and equipped with CCTV cameras, panic buttons and GPS systems, ensuring enhanced passenger safety.
The initiative also includes a focus on women’s participation in public transport. Around 150 people have been employed under the project, including 30 women guides and two women drivers. The Chief Minister said the initiative strengthens the state’s efforts towards women empowerment while improving urban transport services.
Addressing the gathering, Majhi said Keonjhar has contributed significantly to the state but had remained neglected in the past. He stated that development in the district has accelerated under the current government and that efforts are underway to establish a mega steel plant in the region, with the process nearing completion. He added that the district would be developed into one of the country’s leading industrial hubs.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the environmental benefits of the e-bus system, stating that it is expected to reduce carbon emissions by around 330 to 390 tonnes annually. He added that the service would be expanded to other cities in the state, with an allocation of approximately ₹238 crore for maintenance.
He further said that the next decade will be a “decade of resolve” for Odisha, with Keonjhar playing a crucial role in achieving the vision of a prosperous state by 2036.
On the occasion, financial assistance totalling ₹5.75 lakh was distributed to six beneficiaries from the district under various schemes.
Several public representatives and officials, including District Planning Committee Chairman Dr Fakir Mohan Naik, MP Ananta Naik, Patna MLA Akhil Chandra Naik, Special Development Council Chairperson Mamita Naik and Collector Vishal Singh, were present at the programme.
On Tuesday, the Chief Minister had laid the foundation stone for a ₹1,647 crore 420/220 kV grid substation at Uchhabali in Keonjhar’s Barbil region, marking a major step towards strengthening the state’s power infrastructure.
