Bhubaneswar: In a historic move towards enhancing the transportation infrastructure in Odisha, the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation signed a crucial contract with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for the construction of Phase-I of the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project. The stretch will connect Bhubaneswar Airport to Trishulia in Cuttack, covering a distance of 26 kilometers.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formalized in the virtual presence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, marking a pivotal moment for the state’s transportation landscape. The DMRC will serve as a turn-key consultant for the ambitious project, targeted for completion in four years.
Expressing his enthusiasm, CM Patnaik stated that this initiative heralds a new era in Odisha’s transportation history, poised to transform the capital region’s landscape. He emphasized the project’s significance under the 5T Initiative, envisioning a New Odisha with improved transportation infrastructure.
Highlighting the financial commitment, Patnaik shared, “My Cabinet has approved the First Phase of the Metro Project from Bhubaneswar Airport to Trisulia Square at a cost of Rs. 6255 Crore. This is the single largest investment made in any infrastructure project in the history of Odisha, with the entire cost to be borne by the State Government.”
DMRC Managing Director Vikas Kumar welcomed the commencement of transit-oriented development in Odisha, predicting economic rejuvenation and growth in the region. The project’s main features include a 26 km stretch with 20 metro stations, elevated viaducts, ultra-modern coaches, an advanced signaling system, and a cutting-edge ticketing system.