Odisha’s New LAccMI Scheme 2023: Improving Rural Transportation

On July 4th, the Odisha government revealed an ambitious program aimed at improving transportation in rural areas. The state’s Commerce and Transport Department introduced the groundbreaking “Location Accessible Multimodal Initiative (LAccMI) Scheme” to address the challenges of rural transport.

Odisha’s LAccMI Scheme 2023 Receives Green Light: Affordable and Sustainable Public Transportation for All

In a significant development, the Odisha Cabinet gave its approval to the “Location Accessible Multi-modal Initiative” (LAccMI) plan on Friday, September 16, 2023. This innovative scheme, initiated by the Odisha government, is designed to revolutionize public transportation within the state. Focusing particularly on rural areas, where public transport has struggled to meet the demands of the population, the LAccMI plan aims to provide reliable and affordable public transit services. The State Commerce and Transport Department envisions a comprehensive public transportation network spanning from Gram Panchayats to the State Capital, ensuring accessible and budget-friendly transportation options for all residents of Odisha.

Mission Shakti Self-Help Groups Join LAccMI Scheme to Boost Bus Services

In the first three years, from 2023 to 2026, the LAccMI Scheme plans to spend about Rs. 3178 Crores on improving bus services. This scheme aims to connect all Gram Panchayats, Block and District Headquarters, major cities, and economic hubs. LAccMI will roll out gradually and bring around 1,000 buses into service. The system has a 10-year initial lifespan with the option of an additional 2-year extension if necessary. Extra funds will be allocated based on how well it performs.

Key Highlights of the LAccMI Scheme: Enhancing Rural Transportation in Odisha:

• Scheme Name: LAccMI Scheme
• Full Form: Location Accessible Multimodal Initiative
• Launched by: Odisha Government
• Launch Date: August 15, 2023
• Objective: Enhancing Rural Transportation

Goals of the LAccMI Scheme: Boosting Transportation in Odisha

The LAccMI Scheme, one of the 20 new initiatives introduced by the state government in the 2023–24 budget, carries a substantial investment of Rs 7,202 crore. This project will receive a special allocation of Rs 100 crore. The strategic focus of this new program, as outlined by the Commerce and Transport Department, initially centres on improving transportation within blocks and districts, with a future aim of seamlessly integrating these efforts into inter-city bus operations. The LAccMI Scheme is designed to remain effective for a minimum of ten years.

Key Features of the LAccMI Scheme: Improving Rural Transportation in Odisha

There are many notable features in the LAccMI Scheme:

1. Focus on Local Connectivity: Initially, the scheme prioritizes improving connectivity at the block and district levels.
2. Panchayat-Level Mo Bus Service: Mo Bus services will be introduced in each panchayat, enhancing local transportation options.
3. Integration with Intercity Buses: Mo Buses will eventually link panchayats and blocks, seamlessly integrating with intercity bus services.
4. Phased Implementation: The project’s initial phase will be carried out in the Koraput, Gajapati, and Kalahandi districts, targeting areas with limited access to public transportation.
5. Rapid Rollout: Rural areas with inadequate transportation options will experience the first phase of operations starting on October 2. By January 2024, these services will have expanded to cover all regions.
6. Project Planning: The Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) is responsible for creating comprehensive project reports, including connection architecture and collaboration opportunities for each gram panchayat. They have one month to finish these reports, allowing procurement procedures to move along quickly when they are ready.

Benefits of the LAccMI Scheme in Odisha: Enhancing Rural Life

The LAccMI Scheme in Odisha has several advantages:

1. Better Rural Connectivity: This scheme aims to improve connections in Odisha’s rural areas, especially in places where there aren’t many public transportation options. It will make it easier for people to reach important places like schools, clinics, markets, and jobs.
2. Last-Mile Connectivity: The scheme focuses on making it quick and easy for people in remote areas to connect with the existing transportation system. This means they can easily access important services and resources.
3. Emergency Medical Help: The scheme also includes emergency medical services. It extends Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) to help people in rural areas get to hospitals quickly when they’re seriously injured. This can save lives by getting them the medical care they need fast.
4. Safer Transportation: By quickly moving accident victims who need trauma care, the scheme helps make transportation safer in rural areas. It reduces the time it takes for them to get help, which increases their chances of getting better.
5. Overall Benefits: The LAccMI Scheme in Odisha offers many benefits to rural communities, including better connections, emergency services, safety, development, less need for private cars, and access for everyone. By dealing with transportation problems, this scheme wants to make life better for people in rural areas.

Eligibility for LAccMI Scheme: Who Can Apply?

The LAccMI Scheme is open exclusively to residents of Odisha, with a particular focus on citizens residing in rural areas of the state.

Applying for the LAccMI Scheme: Steps to Follow

Recently, the state government introduced the LAccMI Scheme. The government will shortly make the program’s official website public, although it is not yet live.