DPR of ₹5,929 Crore Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project approved

Bhubaneswar, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development for the state of Odisha, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has given his approval to the detailed project report (DPR) for the Bhubaneswar Metro project. This ambitious undertaking, with an estimated cost of ₹5,929 crore for its first phase, is poised to become a game-changer for public transportation in the city.

A Milestone for Odisha

The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project represents a major milestone for Odisha, as it marks the state's entry into the league of top Indian cities with a metro rail system. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed his optimism about the project's impact, stating, "The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project is a major landmark project for Odisha. Bhubaneswar will join the select group of top cities in the country with a metro rail system. This project will further strengthen the public transport in the city and enable the economic growth of the city. The city has been recognized for various urban projects and is emerging as a city with an enhanced quality of life. I am sure this mega project will make Bhubaneswar a top liveable city in the country."

One notable aspect of this metro project is the state government's commitment to bear the entire cost. This reflects the government's dedication to improving the infrastructure and quality of life in Odisha's capital city.

Project Timeline and Funding

For the current fiscal year, ₹210 Crore has been allocated in the supplementary budget to kickstart the project. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the Bhubaneswar Metro project on January 1, 2024. This timeline underscores the government's commitment to rapid progress.

To oversee the project, the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation has been newly incorporated as a fully government-owned company under the Companies Act. This corporation has already commenced its operations and is set to play a pivotal role in the successful execution of the project.

A high-level committee, chaired by the Development Commissioner, has been formed to ensure the swift engagement of an executing agency for the project. This demonstrates the government's dedication to efficient project management and execution.

Project Details

The Bhubaneswar Metro project's alignment is designed to decongest main roads and provide maximum benefit to daily commuters. It will consist of an elevated structure running from Trisulia Square to Bhubaneswar Airport, with 20 stations strategically placed along the route. These stations will serve crucial areas such as Nandankanan, KIIT Square, Damana Square, Jaydev Vihar, Vani Vihar, Ram Mandir, Bhubaneswar Railway Station, Bapuji Nagar, Sishu Bhawan, and Capital Hospital.

5T Initiative

The Bhubaneswar Metro project aligns with the State's 5T Initiative, highlighting its commitment to transparency, teamwork, technology, and time as key principles driving the project forward. V. K. Pandian, Secretary to the 5T Initiative, has played a pivotal role in finalizing the alignment, which was based on extensive field visits and considerations.

The Bhubaneswar Metro project is not just a transportation initiative; it represents a transformative endeavor that will redefine the city's infrastructure, public transportation system, and overall quality of life. With its ambitious timeline and government support, this project is set to propel Bhubaneswar to new heights and make it one of India's top liveable cities.