Siba Prasad Samantaray takes the charge as CEO of Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation

Bhubaneswar, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant appointment, Siba Prasad Samantaray has assumed the role of the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation Limited. Samantaray, known for his previous role as the Chief Project Director for Bridge Works at the East Coast Railway, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new position.

Samantaray's appointment as CEO marks the beginning of a new chapter for BMRC. With his background in overseeing critical railway projects, Samantaray is well-equipped to lead BMRC in its mission to develop a state-of-the-art metro rail system for Bhubaneswar.

Samantaray is set to lead Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation for a duration of one year, during which he will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Bhubaneswar Metro.

In another crucial appointment, Prasanna Kumar Sarangi, serving as the Special Secretary of the Housing and Urban Department, has taken on the position of General Manager (Administration) at BMRC. Sarangi's administrative acumen will undoubtedly contribute to the efficient functioning of the organization.

The development of the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project is making steady progress. Currently, geotechnical investigations are underway for the proposed metro rail stretch between Nandankanan in Bhubaneswar and Trishulia in Cuttack. Overseeing this vital survey is the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), setting the foundation for this transformative project.

It is noteworthy that Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik granted approval for the metro train service on April 1, 2023, coinciding with Utkal Dibasa. This significant decision underscores the government's commitment to enhancing public transportation and urban mobility in the region.

The initial phase of the Bhubaneswar Metro will encompass key areas, including the airport, railway station, Vani Vihar, Jaydev Vihar, Patia, Nandankanan, and Trishulia. This comprehensive coverage promises to vastly improve connectivity and accessibility for residents and commuters alike.

The vision for the Bhubaneswar Metro extends beyond its first phase. Ambitious plans are in place to extend the metro rail service to Puri, connecting the historic pilgrimage town with Cuttack and Bhubaneswar. This expansion holds the promise of integrating the region further and offering convenient transportation options to a broader population.

The eagerly awaited first phase of the Bhubaneswar metro rail project will span approximately 26 kilometers. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) outlines this stretch, which will encompass an impressive 20 stations, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the city.

Some of the prominent stations that will be served by the metro rail include Biju Patnaik airport, Capital Hospital, Sishu Bhawan, Bapuji Nagar, Bhubaneswar Railway Station, Ram Mandir Square, Vani Vihar, Acharya Vihar, Jaydev Vihar, Xavier Square, Rail Sadan, Damana Square, Patia Square, KIIT Square, Nandan Vihar, Raghunathpur, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Phulapokhari, and Trishulia Square in Cuttack.

The Odisha government's commitment to the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project was evident when Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik sanctioned the project on April 1, 2023, as part of the Odisha Dibasa celebrations.

The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project aligns with the 5T mandate, focusing on connecting Bhubaneswar airport and Trishulia in Cuttack. There are extensive plans to further expand the metro rail network to Khordha, Puri, and other areas within the cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.

To ensure the successful implementation of this ambitious project, the Odisha government enlisted the expertise of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Limited (DMRC) to prepare the detailed project report (DPR). This collaborative effort underscores the commitment to delivering a world-class metro system.

On August 3, 2023, a significant milestone was reached as the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation Limited was officially notified. This marked the formal establishment of the organization responsible for executing this transformative project.

The DMRC, following a rigorous process that included traffic surveys, geotechnical investigations, topographic surveys, environmental and social impact assessments, completed the DPR and submitted it to the Chief Secretary on August 16, 2023, during a meeting of the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation. This progress signifies a significant step forward in the realization of the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project.