Bhubaneswar, 15 May (H.S.): Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister, Housing & Urban Development Department and Public Enterprises, Government of Odisha, visited the head office of Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) on Thursday in Bhubaneswar to review ongoing activities and progress of urban mobility initiatives in the state.

The Minister Dr Mahapatra conducted a comprehensive review of the initiatives taken by CRUT with a special focus on infrastructure development, expansion to eight new towns and digital initiatives.

Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Managing Director, CRUT apprised the Minister on the progress of electric-depots construction at Naraj, Pokahriput, Chhend, Rourkela, Haldiapadar, Berhampur and Sambalpur. He also shared details about expansion plan to operate city bus services in Keonjhar, Baripada, Angul and Jharsuguda in the first phase.

During his visit, Dr. Mahapatra visited the Command Control Centre, where he observed real-time bus tracking, grievance redressal systems for Odisha Yatri and CRUT. He appreciated the integrated technology-based operations that enable enhanced commuter experiences and swift response to issues on the ground.

Dr. Mahapatra emphasized the need to keep a strict check on ticketless travellers to prevent pilferage. To improve service delivery and boost workforce motivation, the Minister recommended the introduction of Key Performance Indicator (KPI) incentives for performing crew based on commuters’ feedback.Additionally, he stressed the importance of compulsory refresher training for all HMV drivers of CRUT at the four Govt. HMV Driving Training institutes in the state. Along with enhanced behavioural training modules at the Odisha Urban Academy, Bhubaneswar to ensure professional and courteous interactions with passengers.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda