Odisha CM Launches LAccMI Bus Service In 3 More Districts

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday launched the much-anticipated LAccMI bus service in three more districts – Deogarh, Angul, and Dhenkanal – aiming to bridge the rural transportation gap. A fleet of 101 state-of-the-art buses will now connect 440 panchayats in these districts, benefiting over 27 lakh people.

Under the 5T initiative, the LAccMI scheme offers bus services from panchayats to blocks at a nominal fare of just Rs 5. This initiative, first launched in Malkangiri, has already benefitted 63 lakh residents in six tribal districts.

With the latest launch, the LAccMI network now covers nine districts in Odisha. The plan envisions over 1,000 “Laxmi buses” plying across the state, operated by Mission Shakti women’s self-help groups.

The Chief Minister highlighted the scheme’s genesis in understanding villagers’ transportation struggles during district visits. He emphasized that LAccMI buses will not only ease daily commutes but also connect children to schools, patients to hospitals, and farmers to markets, empowering rural communities.

Patnaik reiterated his commitment to village development, stating that the “Ama Odisha Nabin Odisha” program has revitalized panchayats. He sees LAccMI as the heart of development programs, connecting villages with digital infrastructure, Jagannath culture, and a mass movement for progress.

Patnaik concluded by urging everyone to collaborate in building a “New Odisha.” He expressed confidence that with collective effort, this development initiative can pave the way for a brighter future for the state.