Odisha inaugurates special bus service for Maha Kumbh Mela

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today virtually inaugurated the Special Bus Services for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.

These premium services, operated by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC), will run from January 12 to February 26, connecting Puri, Sambalpur, Bhawanipatna, and Berhampur to Ayodhya via Varanasi and Prayagraj.

These Bus services have commenced today from Puri, Berhampur, Bhawanipatna, and Sambalpur, with 200 devotees beginning their spiritual journey today on the first day of operations to the Maha Kumbh Mela. The special service will continue until February 26, 2025.

This initiative is a first-of-its-kind in Odisha, aimed at ensuring convenient and comfortable travel for pilgrims.

The Chief Minister said, “These high-end premium buses symbolize the Odisha Government’s commitment to providing safe, reliable, and comfortable transportation services as well as showcases an aspirational way of modern transformative Odisha. These Buses equipped with state-of-the-art features, this service will enhance the pilgrimage experience for devotees traveling to the Maha Kumbh Mela.”

Further, the fares for these premium services have been kept affordable to ensure accessibility for all and to promote tourism, with a 50% concession exclusively for women commuters. Passengers can book tickets in advance through the OSRTC website (osrtc.org), the OSRTC mobile app, or by visiting their nearest OSRTC ticket counter.

A dedicated 24/7 helpdesk (1800 345 1122) and WhatsApp support (7849052205) are available for assistance. Additionally, OSRTC staff and officials will be stationed in Prayagraj and on board the buses to address passenger needs and ensure seamless operations.