Odisha CM Initiates Rs 6,225 Crore Bhubaneswar Metro Project with Foundation Stone Laying

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik marked a historic moment on Monday by laying the foundation stone for the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project, a monumental undertaking with an estimated cost of Rs 6,225 crore. The foundation stone was placed at Ratagada Lenka Sahi near Trisulia, preceded by a vibrant roadshow covering the proposed 26 km route of the metro project. During the roadshow, enthusiastic crowds lined the route, showcasing traditional folk dance and music to welcome the chief minister.

Addressing the gathered audience, Patnaik inquired, "Apan Mane Khusi Ta (Are you happy)?", emphasizing the significance of the occasion. He declared, "Today (Jan 1, 2024) will remain in the history of Odisha's development. As promised earlier, we are laying the foundation stone of the metro rail project." Patnaik highlighted that this project represents the state government's largest-ever investment in any infrastructure endeavor in Odisha's history and serves as the flagship initiative under the 5T (transformational) program.

Providing project details, the chief minister stated that the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail will encompass 20 stations along a 26 km stretch from Bhubaneswar airport to Trishulia. Additionally, Patnaik revealed plans for a master plan to extend the metro rail network to Khurda, Puri, and Cuttack.

The ambitious project, set to be completed in four years, aims to enhance urban mobility in the state by offering convenient transportation from Bhubaneswar airport to Cuttack via Trishulia. The detailed project report outlines the first phase, connecting Biju Patnaik International Airport with Trisulia Square, with an estimated expenditure of Rs. 6,255 crore by the state government.

The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for the project's execution. The DMRC, operating as a turn-key consultant, will oversee the construction of the metro railway from Biju Patnaik International Airport to Trishulia, charging a fee of Rs. 326.56 crore.

The list of 20 stations includes prominent locations such as Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), Capital Hospital, Bhubaneswar Railway Station, KIIT Square, and Trisulia Square. The project, announced on Utkal Divas in April 2023, received cabinet approval in November of the same year, setting the stage for a transformative leap in Odisha's transportation infrastructure.

ET