Bhubaneswar: In a significant development, Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation today signed an MoU with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation for the proposed metro train project in Bhubaneswar.
The contract was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik virtually. The project is targeted to be completed in four years.
As per the MoU, the first phase of Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project will be carried out by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) from the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar to Trishulia in Cuttack. The DMRC will work as a turn-key consultant for the project.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that this pact signals the emergence of a new epoch in the transportation history of Odisha. He further said that we are now poised to transform the transportation landscape in the capital region. This is a flagship programme under the 5T Initiative of my Government that will also symbolize the emergence of a New Odisha.
Highlighting the project, he said, “My Cabinet has approved the First Phase of Metro Project from Bhubaneswar Airport to Trishulia Square at a cost of Rs. 6255 Crore (Six Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Five Crore Rupee). This is the single largest investment made in any infrastructure project in the history of Odisha. The entire cost of the project will be borne by the State Government.”
He expressed happiness over the project, stating that his government is delivering yet another promise, which was made as part of his party’s manifesto in 2019.
Appreciating the expertise of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, he said that DMRC is a pioneer in the field of construction and operation of Metro Rail in the country. He expressed confidence that the construction of the Metro Rail will be of World Class standard and will be completed in time.
He wished grand success for the endeavor and hoped that this would set new benchmarks in the Metro Rail history in the country.
The programme was moderated by 5T Chairman VK Pandian.
The much-awaited metro rail project was announced by CM Patnaik on April 1, 2023. Pandian visited Trishulia in Cuttack on October 29 to take stock of the progress in project before the foundation.
Speaking on the occasion, Housing & Urban Development Minister Usha Devi said that it’s a historic moment that will transform the transport sector. She appreciated the statesmanship of the Chief Minister for the Project.
Science & Technology Minister Sri Ashok Panda said that this project will make Cuttack and Bhubaneswar truly a twin city.
Chief Secretary PK Jena said that the project will not only ease out traffic in both the cities, it will also spruce up the economy.
DMRC MD Vikas Kumar said that this an apt time to start transit oriented development in Odisha. It will spruce up economy, and push growth and development in the region.
Main features of the project:
• Length of the project from Bhubaneswar Airport to Trisulia square is 26 Kms.
• There will be 20 Metro stations including at Capital Hospital, Rajmahal square, Jayadev Vihar square and Patia square.
• The Metro rail tracks and stations will be on elevated viaducts.
• Ultra-modern Coaches and signaling system will be adopted
• Advanced Ticketing System.
