On 1st January 2024, Odisha Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik, launched the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project with an investment of Rs 6,225 crore, marking the state government’s largest single investment in an infrastructure project. The project is a flagship initiative under the state’s 5T (transformational) program.
The project will be completed in four years, and as per the detailed project report (DPR), the project will connect Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar with Trisulia Square in the first phase. The 20 stations are 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, Nanadankanan Zoological Park, Phulapokhari and Trisulia Square.
Before laying the foundation stone at Ratagada Lenka Sahi near Trishulia, a roadshow was held on the 26 km route of the proposed metro project. the project will have 20 stations covering 26 km from Bhubaneswar airport to Trishulia. The CM said that he has asked for the preparation of a master plan for the extension of metro rail to Khurda, Puri and Cuttack.
The MoU for the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation has been signed with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for the project, wherein DMRC will execute the project as a turnkey consultant. The metro rail tracks and stations will be on elevated viaducts.
