Phase 1 of Bhubaneswar Metro likely to complete by the end of 2027

Bhubaneswar, India (Metro Rail Today): The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation (BMRC) has set a firm deadline to complete the metro rail infrastructure by the end of the 2027 financial year, with plans to offer the first metro rides to the public by mid-2028. This ambitious 26-kilometer metro rail project is poised to transform the transportation landscape of Odisha’s capital, connecting major residential, educational, and commercial hubs across the city.

Overview of the Bhubaneswar Metro Project

The Bhubaneswar Metro project is a monumental effort aimed at easing traffic congestion and promoting sustainable public transport in Bhubaneswar. The project, which will span 26 kilometers and include 20 stations, is being undertaken at an estimated cost of Rs 6,255.94 crore. Once completed, it will serve key areas of the city, including educational institutions, hospitals, government offices, commercial complexes, and major transport hubs.

The first phase of the metro network will stretch from Bhubaneswar Airport to Trisulia and later be extended to surrounding cities, including Cuttack, Khurda, and Puri, as part of subsequent project phases.

Timeline for Infrastructure Completion

BMRC has set a clear target for the construction of the metro infrastructure, aiming for completion by December 2027. Kalyan Pattnaik, CEO of BMRC, emphasized that the elevated tracks and stations should be ready by this date, provided there are no significant delays due to external factors such as weather events or natural disasters. Pattnaik confirmed that all necessary funds have been allocated, and the construction work is moving ahead as planned.

He added, “The construction of elevated structures for laying of tracks is expected to commence in April 2024, and the metro rail infrastructure will be completed within three years, barring any unforeseen interruptions.”

Ongoing Construction and Soil Testing

Before full-scale construction can begin, extensive soil testing is being conducted across Bhubaneswar to assess the ground conditions along the planned metro route. Of the 250 identified locations for testing, work has already been completed at approximately 50 points, with expectations to finish by March 2024. This testing is crucial for ensuring the stability and safety of the elevated tracks and metro stations.

Additionally, BMRC has begun work on establishing a metro maintenance depot and command and control center (CCC) at Ratagada Lenkasahi (near Trisulia), covering a 40-acre plot. The CCC, which is being built at an estimated cost of Rs 300 crore, will house the physical infrastructure as well as advanced equipment, signaling systems, and other critical machinery necessary for the smooth operation of the metro network.

Construction Progress and Key Contracts

The metro project is being executed with assistance from the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), which is serving as the turn-key consultant. In terms of contracts, the following segments of the metro rail have been awarded:

• The 7.12 km stretch from Capital Hospital to Acharya Vihar Square is being developed by Ranjit Buildcon Ltd at a cost of Rs 561 crore.
• The 7.27 km stretch from Acharya Vihar Square to KIIT Square is also being developed by Ranjit Buildcon Ltd at an estimated cost of Rs 625 crore.
• The 10.97 km stretch from KIIT Square to Trisulia Square has been awarded to Ceigall India Ltd for Rs 899 crore.

These projects will include the construction of elevated metro tracks, which will be at least 13 meters above the ground, ensuring the metro system can efficiently cross over key flyovers at Rajmahal Square, Jaydev Vihar, and Barang (railway), where the structures will be built at higher elevations.

Metro Train Procurement and Initial Fleet

In addition to the infrastructure development, BMRC has also initiated the procurement process for the metro trains. Tenders for metro trains have been floated, with plans to develop an initial fleet of 13 trains, each consisting of three coaches. These trains will have the capacity to carry 764 passengers each, with trains running every 10 minutes during peak hours.

The metro system is expected to significantly reduce congestion on the city’s busy roads and provide a faster, more reliable means of transportation for the residents of Bhubaneswar.

Future Phases and Expanding Connectivity

Once the first phase is completed, the metro network will be extended to neighboring cities, making Bhubaneswar Metro a crucial part of the broader transportation plan for the region. Cuttack, Khurda, and Puri will be connected in future phases, creating a seamless urban transit network across the entire area. The extended metro system is expected to play a key role in the development of Odisha's urban infrastructure, promoting both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

The Bhubaneswar Metro project marks a significant step forward for the city’s infrastructure, offering an eco-friendly, efficient, and modern public transport system. With the groundwork already underway, the project is on track for completion by 2027, with the first metro trains expected to start running by mid-2028. The successful implementation of this project will pave the way for better mobility, reduced traffic congestion, and enhanced quality of life for the people of Bhubaneswar and surrounding areas.

Key Project Highlights:

• Length of metro rail: 26 km
• Number of stations: 20
• Total cost: Rs 6,255.94 crore
• Completion deadline for infrastructure: December 2027
• Initial metro train fleet: 13 trains with three coaches each
• Future expansions: Bhubaneswar to Cuttack, Khurda, and Puri

With its ambitious goals, the Bhubaneswar Metro is poised to revolutionize urban mobility in Odisha’s capital and become a model for sustainable city transport in India.