Odisha's Ama Buses to Welcome Women Drivers Following Specialized Training Initiative
In a significant move toward gender inclusivity in public transportation, women drivers are set to take the wheel on Ama Buses operated by the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) in Odisha. Officials have confirmed that this initiative marks a progressive step in transforming the state's urban mobility landscape.
Advanced Training Program in Pune Prepares Women for New Roles
As part of this groundbreaking effort, twenty women possessing valid heavy motor vehicle licenses were carefully selected to undergo an advanced training program. These candidates recently returned to Odisha after successfully completing a comprehensive course conducted in Pune from February 2 to 14. The training was held at a specialized mobility plant and received crucial sponsorship and technical support from the German development agency GIZ.
The curriculum was meticulously designed to equip participants with essential skills for modern public transport operations. Key focus areas included electric bus handling, rigorous safety protocols, advanced driving techniques, and contemporary city bus system management. The program emphasized practical, hands-on sessions to ensure real-world readiness.
Local Practice and Formal Induction Process Ahead
Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department, provided detailed insights into the next phases of the initiative. She explained that the newly trained women will now engage in an additional fifteen days of local driving practice and route familiarization within Odisha. This crucial step is designed to acclimate them to specific operational conditions before formal induction.
Following this field training and a thorough assessment process, the women will be officially deployed as dedicated crew members to operate Ama Bus services. This structured approach ensures both competency and confidence as they assume their new responsibilities.
Broader Goals: Leadership, Dignity, and Equal Access
Padhee emphasized that the initiative extends far beyond mere skill development. It aims to create meaningful leadership opportunities for women, ensure dignity in the workplace, and expand equal access to public service roles. She expressed optimism that these pioneering drivers will serve as inspirational figures, motivating more women to consider careers in the transportation sector.
The department further highlighted how this program aligns with the government's broader objectives of building a safer, more inclusive, and future-ready urban mobility system. By opening sustainable livelihood options for women in public transport, it addresses both economic empowerment and social equity.
Supporting Sustainable Urban Development and Gender Equality
This initiative represents a holistic approach to urban development, integrating technical training with social progress. The collaboration with international agencies like GIZ underscores a commitment to global best practices in transportation and gender mainstreaming.
As Odisha moves forward with this transformative project, the deployment of women drivers on Ama Buses is expected to enhance passenger trust, promote safer travel environments, and set a precedent for other regions to follow. The successful implementation could catalyze similar efforts across India, contributing to a more balanced and progressive public transport ecosystem nationwide.
