Bhubaneswar Metro Project Suspended by Odisha Government
In a significant development, the ambitious Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project, designed to connect the twin cities upon completion, has been officially put on hold by the state government. Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra announced this decision in the assembly on Tuesday, citing concerns over expected low ridership and the need for technical assessments.
Reasons Behind the Hold
Responding to a query from Simulia MLA Padmalochan Panda, Minister Mahapatra explained that the suspension aligns with the National Metro Rail Policy. The government has formed an inter-ministerial committee to evaluate various aspects of the policy and determine the project's future direction. A final decision is anticipated in the coming days, as the committee reviews technical details and ridership projections.
Mahapatra further highlighted that the state is currently implementing a new Sustainable Urban Mobility Transition Plan for Odisha. This initiative aims to reshape future mobility and public transport strategies not only for Bhubaneswar but across the entire state, potentially influencing the metro project's revival or modification.
Public Reaction and Concerns
The minister's announcement has sparked disappointment among Bhubaneswar's residents, who have long advocated for the metro as a crucial infrastructure need. Many argue that the project is essential for the city's expansion and growing population. Patia resident Bikash Sharma emphasized, "Bhubaneswar is expanding, and it needs a metro rail network to meet the demands of the city's growing population. Metro will be a necessity."
Sharma urged the government to take visionary steps and proceed with execution rather than stalling, noting that if work begins now, it could take at least five years to complete. Similarly, Manas Sahu, a resident of Sailashree Vihar, expressed concern, stating, "Holding the metro project back is a bad idea now. The government should reconsider."
Project History and Revisions
The metro plan was originally proposed in 2023 under the previous BJD government's rule. The initial phase envisioned an elevated corridor between the city airport and Trishulia, featuring 16 stations. However, after the BJP came to power, the plan was revised to extend the metro to Cuttack. Discussions about its continuity arose when construction work, which had started in parts of Bhubaneswar, was abruptly halted.
Under the BJP government, a revised plan was announced, shifting from an elevated to an underground metro network. This change added complexity to the project, contributing to the current pause as authorities reassess feasibility and alignment with broader urban mobility goals.
As the state government navigates these challenges, the future of the Bhubaneswar Metro remains uncertain, with residents hopeful for a positive resolution that supports the city's long-term development.
