Aparajita Sarangi Backs Metro Rail For Bhubaneswar-Cuttack, Writes To Odisha CM

Bhubaneswar: BJP leader and Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi has called for expediting the proposal for an Integrated Metro Rail System for Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. The MP has written to Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, urging him to send a proposal to the Centre in this regard.

“The combined population of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack will be around 22 lakhs. However, the rapid expansion of habitations and commercial complexes between both the twin cities have expanded at a rapid pace and if one includes the areas which do not come within the Municipal Corporations of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, then the estimated population would be close to 30 lakhs. I would like to mention that both Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, though important cities of Odisha, do not have Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS),” she wrote in her letter to the CM.

“As per Metro Rail Policy, 2017, the cities having more than 20 lakhs population should plan for Metro Rail system. In this regard, I would like to mention that the population of Bhubaneswar is likely to exceed 20 lakhs within 4 to 5 years. Further, as mentioned above, the current combined population of twin cities Bhubaneswar and Cuttack is already exceeding 20 lakhs,” she said.

“Therefore, in the fitness of things, an integrated Metro Rail system should be planned for both the cities by the State Government. The project can be implemented in a phased manner, first starting with the city of Bhubaneswar, thereafter expanding to the city of Cuttack. Metro system can be planned under 50:50 equity partnership of Central and State Government as per Metro Policy, 2017. The implementation of the project can be done by 50:50 Joint Venture of the Central Government and Government of Odisha. The development of the Metro system will not only improve mobility, but it will also enhance the commercial activities in both the twin cities,” the MP said.