Centre Considers Namo Bharat Rapid Rail Instead of Metro for Bhubaneswar–Cuttack
New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: The proposed metro rail project between Bhubaneswar and Cuttack is unlikely to become operational in the near future, as the Centre is considering an alternative rapid rail service to improve connectivity between the twin cities.
The Union government is planning to introduce the Namo Bharat RapidX train service to strengthen public transport between Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
Minister Responds in Rajya Sabha
Replying to a query by Rajya Sabha member Sulata Deo, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed Parliament that the government is working on plans to operate Namo Bharat trains between the two cities.
He said several infrastructure initiatives are underway to enhance connectivity between Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. These include the construction of a newly sanctioned four-lane parallel highway along the existing route. The government is also planning a new railway line where Namo Bharat trains could run frequently, possibly at intervals of around 30 minutes.
Cost Concerns Behind Rethinking Metro Plan
The minister stated that cost efficiency is a key factor behind reconsidering the metro project. According to him, constructing a surface railway line would cost around Rs 30 crore per kilometre, while an elevated metro system could cost nearly Rs 300 crore per kilometre.
“If the connectivity between Cuttack and Bhubaneswar can be achieved at Rs 30 crore per kilometre, investing Rs 300 crore per kilometre for a metro system would not be prudent, as it involves public money,” he said.
Metro Project Announced Earlier
The Bhubaneswar–Cuttack Metro project was earlier announced by the previous Odisha government led by former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The foundation stone for the project was laid on January 1, 2024.
The proposed metro line was estimated to cost Rs 6,255 crore and was planned to include 20 stations connecting the two cities.
However, with the Centre now exploring the Namo Bharat rapid rail alternative, the future of the metro project remains uncertain.
