New Delhi, Oct. 15 -- Odisha is linking the expansion of electric public transport with a broader push for workforce inclusion, with Shubhalakshmi Mahananda, the state's first woman electric-bus driver, highlighted ahead of Bhubaneswar hosting the 19th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference and Expo on October 23 and 24.

Mahananda drives an Ama Bus in Kendujhar for Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT). The district's network has 25 electric buses and a dedicated depot, according to a state government press release. Her role brings attention to women's participation in an occupation traditionally viewed as male-dominated.

The release says Mahananda developed her driving skills through specialised training and practical experience. Her en...