Usha Padhee’s Transport Legacy in Odisha: Empowerment, Safety, and Connectivity

Odisha’s transport sector witnessed a transformative era under the leadership of Usha Padhee, whose vision went beyond infrastructure to embrace empowerment, safety, and inclusivity.

Her initiatives strengthened public transport through the Mukhyamantri Bus Seva and modernised commuter facilities with Atal Bus Stands.

She championed women’s empowerment by launching AMA Suvahak, enabling women to become drivers and operators, and encouraged tribal girls to train as pilots, breaking barriers in aviation.

Safety was a cornerstone of her approach, with the “Come Home Safe” campaign making road safety a shared responsibility.

In aviation, Padhee advanced the B-MAAN Policy, expanded air connectivity, and promoted MRO infrastructure, while also establishing specialised training through the Crew Training Institute (CTI) and Odisha Maritime Academy (OMA).

Her tenure accelerated infrastructure projects via Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), revived National Waterway-5, and laid the groundwork for the Bahuda Port, integrating road, rail, air, and maritime networks.

Padhee’s legacy is a future‑ready transport ecosystem that symbolises dignity, opportunity, and empowerment for every citizen of Odisha.