Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik marked the beginning of the Phase 1 of the Bhubaneswar metro rail project connecting the state capital and Cuttack, by laying the foundation stone on January 1, 2024, during the Utkal Divas celebration.
The State Cabinet granted approval for Phase-I in November 2023, allocating ₹6,255 crore for the project. The project, set to be completed in four years, marks a significant step for the development of Odisha.
Prior to laying the foundation stone at Ratagada Lenka Sahi near Trisulia, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik engaged in a roadshow along the proposed 26 km route of the metro project. The route was filled with people standing on both sides of the road, and various groups showcased traditional folk dance and music to warmly welcome the Chief Minister during the lively roadshow.
CM Patnaik's addressal
"Apan Mane Khusi Ta (Are you happy)", Mr. Patnaik asked the people gathered on the occasion. "Today (January 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," he said.
He highlighted that, The four-year project, with a total cost of Rs 6,000 crore, stands as the largest investment in any infrastructure project in Odisha's history, entirely funded by the state government under the 5T initiative.
About the Project
The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project is geared towards improving transportation convenience, creating a seamless connection from Bhubaneswar airport to Cuttack via Trishulia. The detailed project report (DPR) specifies that the first phase of the project will focus on linking Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar with Trisulia Square, ultimately enhancing urban mobility in the State.
Elevated corridors will host the complete metro route and stations, facilitating trains to operate every 10 minutes from both directions and catering to approximately 750 passengers. The state government has disclosed intentions to introduce cutting-edge technology, including ultra-modern coaches and an advanced ticketing system, as the project tender is poised to be released in the near future.
The initial phase of the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project features 20 stations along the 26-km stretch, including key locations such as Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), Capital Hospital, Sishu Bhawan, Bapuji Nagar, Bhubaneswar Railway Station, Ram Mandir Square, Vani Vihar, Acharya Vihar Square, Jaydev Vihar Square, Xavier Square, Rail Sadan, District Centre, Damana Square, Patia Square, KIIT Square, Nandan Vihar, Raghunathpur, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Phulapokhari, and Trisulia Square. The entire stretch will feature an elevated viaduct.
The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation has taken a significant step in executing the project by formalizing an agreement through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). According to the official release, the construction will feature elevated viaducts for both metro rail tracks and stations, underscoring a commitment to robust and elevated infrastructure.
The contract with DMRC designates them as a turn-key consultant for the entire metro railway construction from Biju Patnaik International Airport to Trisulia, with a service fee of ₹326.56 crore.
The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project aims to improve daily commuting for numerous individuals, particularly benefiting students and professionals by facilitating smoother travel between cities for work and education.
Plans are underway to extend the metro rail project to nearby towns such as Cuttack, Khurda, and Puri in subsequent phases. Notably, the metro rail is expected to substantially reduce travel time between Puri and Bhubaneswar to under 30 minutes for the 64-km journey, enhancing connectivity in the region.
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