In a significant move to elevate professional standards and enhance passenger safety, the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) authority in Bhubaneswar is planning to establish a dedicated driver training institute at its depot. This initiative aims to strengthen the operational framework of its Ama Bus service network across Odisha's capital region.
Comprehensive Training for Safer Public Transport
The proposed institute will focus on a holistic curriculum encompassing practical driving skills, behavioural training, traffic regulations, lane discipline, and comprehensive road safety modules. Officials emphasize that this structured approach is designed to reduce accidents, instill discipline among drivers, and build public confidence in the city's bus services.
Ministerial Support for Enhanced Safety Measures
Housing and Urban Development Minister Krishna Chandra Mahapatra, who chaired a high-level review meeting earlier this week, underscored the critical importance of professional training in ensuring passenger safety. "A dedicated driver training institute will soon be established on the CRUT depot premises," Mahapatra stated. "It will not only improve driving skills but also focus on behavioural aspects, traffic rules, and lane discipline. This will go a long way in strengthening public transport safety in Odisha."
Broader Initiatives for Transport Excellence
The minister also highlighted CRUT's broader safety and inclusion initiatives, which include:
- Mandatory alcohol testing for drivers
- Insurance coverage for accident victims
- Induction of women drivers into the system
Women Drivers Embark on Specialized E-Bus Training
As part of this progressive push, CRUT recently sent 20 selected women candidates, all holding valid heavy motor vehicle licenses, to Pune for specialized electric bus driving training. This marks a significant step towards inclusive employment in public transport.
Encouragement from Senior Officials
Prior to their departure, the women drivers were felicitated by Minister Mahapatra and Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department. Both officials encouraged the trainees to successfully complete the program and emerge as role models in public transport services.
Advanced Training Program Details
The 14-day advanced training program, scheduled from February 2 to 15, will be conducted at the OEM EKA Mobility plant in Pune. It receives sponsorship and technical support from GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit). Officials confirm that the program will focus on:
- Electric vehicle (EV) bus handling
- Advanced driving practices
- Safety protocols
- Operational excellence
"The trainees are scheduled to return on February 17," officials added.
Commitment to Skill Development and Gender Inclusion
Sanjaya Biswal, Managing Director of CRUT, along with other officials, personally encouraged the trainees and reaffirmed CRUT's commitment to skill development, gender inclusion, and strengthening urban public transport services across the capital region. This dual approach of establishing a permanent training institute while sending drivers for specialized external programs demonstrates CRUT's comprehensive strategy to transform Bhubaneswar's public transportation landscape.
