1. Odisha launches the Location Accessible Multi-modal Initiative (LAccMI) to connect Gram Panchayats to Blocks and District Headquarters.
2. The initiative involves operating 1,623 buses with a budget of Rs 3,178 crore, focusing on improving rural travel.
3. LAccMI aims to enhance accessibility for educational institutions, potentially creating employment opportunities and fostering economic growth.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 24: The Odisha government has introduced the Location Accessible Multi-modal Initiative (LAccMI) with an aim to connect Gram Panchayats to Blocks and Blocks to District Headquarters by operating 1,623 buses with a budget of Rs 3,178 crore.
The LAccMI scheme is designed to improve rural travel, ensuring affordable access to essential services and opportunities. It is expected to benefit 62,291 educational institutions and potentially create 37,652 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
The initiative also projects substantial revenue generation of Rs 45 billion over the next five years.
This strategic move aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on economic development, industrial innovation, infrastructure enhancement, sustainable urban community development, and promoting responsible consumption and production practices.
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Furthermore, LAccMI could unlock Odisha’s untapped potential for rural tourism, connecting scenic sites such as Bonda Hills and Mahendragiri.
Women’s Self-Help Groups linked with Mission Shakti will actively participate in the initiative. These groups will not only serve as conductors on the buses, collecting fares and maintaining cleanliness but also promote women’s empowerment and community welfare.
Diptesh Kumar Pattnayak, IPS, Chairman and MD of OSRTC, expressed pride in collaborating with the Odisha government to bring the LAccMI initiative to life.
He highlighted the scheme’s contribution to the government’s commitment to serving the people of Odisha and fostering inclusive development. Looking ahead, the shared vision is to expand the scheme’s reach and ensure its success in delivering enhanced accessibility across the state.
Amit Patjoshi, CEO of Palladium India, emphasized that LAccMI will break down barriers, connecting isolated and marginalized rural communities.
He noted that accessible transportation in rural areas goes beyond connecting people; it unlocks opportunities. Palladium India is proud to contribute to this initiative, fostering economic growth, promoting social integration, and creating a pathway for inclusive development.
