Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday laid the foundation stones for as many as 55 bus stands across 22 districts of the State, on virtual mode, with a view to boost the rural connectivity.
These bus stands will be set up at block levels taking into account several factors like distance from district headquarters, economic activity, places of tourist interest and existing communication facility, said a statement released by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).
Speaking on the occasion, the CM said rural connectivity has always been one of the topmost priorities for his government and described the move as 'a step in the right direction'.
"This will connect the rural people of the State with better communication infrastructure and benefit them to a great extent and prove to be yet another milestone in the communication scenario of the State," Patnaik said.
Hailing the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) which is connecting Odisha and all its major regions through its fleet of buses, the CM said the Corporation is making new strides in reaching across the entire State and connecting people through an integration of infrastructural development and effective communication network.
He expressed satisfaction over constant innovation and improvement in the quality of service that has been provided to the people of Odisha, many of whom depend on buses for economic, educational as well as recreational purposes.