Keonjhar, Apr 30 (BNP): Mohan Charan Majhi announced a major development package worth over ₹1,330 crore for Keonjhar during his district visit, unveiling a series of infrastructure, transport, welfare, and industrial initiatives aimed at transforming the region’s growth trajectory.

The Chief Minister inaugurated 24 completed projects worth ₹251 crore and laid foundation stones for 62 new projects valued at ₹705 crore. In addition, he announced a ₹375 crore package for 101 upcoming projects to further accelerate development in the mineral-rich district.

In a landmark move for public transport, Majhi launched Odisha’s first smart e-bus service in Keonjhar, introducing 25 modern electric buses along with a ₹17 crore Ama Bus depot. The service offers affordable fares starting from ₹5, aimed at benefiting daily commuters and improving urban connectivity.

Each e-bus is equipped with advanced passenger amenities including air-conditioning, CCTV surveillance, GPS tracking, and panic buttons to ensure safety and convenience.

Highlighting women’s empowerment, the Chief Minister said 30 women guides and two women drivers have been inducted into the e-bus workforce, calling the initiative a major milestone under the state’s Mahila Shakti campaign.

Majhi also announced that a mega steel plant will soon be established in Keonjhar, positioning the district as an emerging industrial powerhouse and one of India’s future leading steel hubs. He stated that the new projects would strengthen local infrastructure, generate employment opportunities, and help reduce carbon emissions by nearly 390 tonnes annually through green transport initiatives.

During the programme, the Chief Minister distributed ₹5.75 lakh in financial assistance to six beneficiaries under various welfare schemes.

Describing the coming years as “Odisha’s decade of determination,” Majhi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to building a prosperous and developed state by 2036.