Bhubaneswar, May 14: Odisha Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena on Thursday announced that all buses operated by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) will be gradually converted into electric vehicles (EVs) as part of the state government’s ambitious plan to promote eco-friendly and cost-effective public transportation.

The announcement came amid panic buying at several petrol pumps in Bhubaneswar following rumours of a possible fuel shortage earlier in the day. Addressing the media, the minister said the government is actively encouraging the adoption of electric mobility in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to reduce pollution and conserve fuel.

Jena also announced that he would personally begin using an electric vehicle from Thursday and restrict himself to only one official vehicle. “Austerity must begin from oneself,” the minister remarked, adding that other ministers are also expected to follow the Chief Minister’s example of reducing convoy sizes to cut unnecessary fuel consumption.

Highlighting the long-term benefits of electric mobility, Jena said EV adoption would help maintain ecological balance while significantly lowering transportation costs. He appealed to people to increasingly rely on public transport systems such as buses and trains to reduce fuel dependency.

The minister further informed that the state government is expanding EV charging infrastructure across Odisha. Of the proposed 100 charging stations, work on 30 has already been completed, including 15 in Bhubaneswar.

He also assured that industries and manufacturers willing to shift towards electric vehicle production would receive government support and incentives.

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