ODISHA (Metro Rail News): Odisha’s very first metro rail project is making progress as the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) recently handed in a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for its initial 26 km-long Phase. This phase will have a total of 20 stations as part of the mass transit system.
The DMRC, after performing surveys and assessments for traffic, topography, geotechnical factors, and environmental and social impacts, has completed the DPR. This report was then submitted to the State Chief Secretary.
The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has been established to manage the project. It held a meeting after being established on August 3, 2023. The CEO and General Manager (Administration) have been appointed to oversee the project.
The first phase, as outlined in the DPR, will connect key locations like Biju Patnaik Airport, Sishu Bhawan, Capital Hospital, Bhubaneswar Railway Station, Ram Mandir Square, Bapujinagar, Vanivihar, Jaydev Vihar Square, Xavier Square, Acharya Vihar Square, Rail Sadan, Damana Square, Patia Square, District Centre, KIIT Square, Nandan Vihar, Raghunathpur, Phulapokhari, and Trisulia Square, Nandankanan Zooligical Park, Cuttack. The metro line aims to make travel more efficient for the people of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
On April 1, 2023, Chief Minister of Odisha Shri Naveen Patnaik approved the metro rail project, which will eventually connect Bhubaneswar Airport to Trishulia in Cuttack. It would subsequently be extended covering areas like Khordha, Puri, and other parts of the cities.
With the growing urbanization of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, these cities have essentially become one urban hub. Many people travel between them for work, business, and education. This has led to crowded buses and sometimes high fares for autorickshaws and cabs. The metro project aims to provide a more convenient and affordable transportation option.
The state of Odisha has been working towards integrating urban areas, including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Khordha, Puri, and Jatani, into one cohesive urban center. The metro rail project is seen as a step in that direction.
