Naveen Patnaik Criticizes Cancellation of Bhubaneswar Metro Project

The government of Odisha has decided to cancel the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. He expressed grave concerns over the decision, stating that it would set back urban mobility and development in the city by at least a decade. The announcement came shortly after the BJP-led state government terminated the contract with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).

In a statement shared on social media, Patnaik expressed his shock at the cancellation. He highlighted that the project was integral to his vision of transforming Bhubaneswar into a world-class city, emphasizing efforts to enhance sports infrastructure, facilitate modern transport, and expand the IT ecosystem. “It has always been our dream to develop Bhubaneswar into a world-class city,” he wrote.

Patnaik further emphasized the potential impact of the metro project, explaining that it would have significantly alleviated congestion in the city and improved last-mile connectivity through systems like Mo Bus. He noted that the original timeline for the project was set for completion by 2027 for Phase 1, which would have reshaped transportation in the state capital.

The former chief minister categorically stated, “The double-engine government has betrayed the people of Odisha by cancelling an important project like Metro Rail. The shocking decision will push the city 10 years back.” His comments reflect a broader concern about the future of urban transport in Bhubaneswar and the potential loss of opportunities for growth and development.

In response, Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Odisha’s Housing and Urban Development Minister, defended the government’s decision. He asserted that the state is committed to planning a feasible metro project for Bhubaneswar. Mahapatra pointed out that the previous BJD government did not seek central assistance, as it had envisioned a fully state-funded project amounting to ₹5,000 crore. This project was intended to connect Biju Patnaik International Airport with Trisulia Square.

Mahapatra stated that the current BJP government aims to execute the project as a joint venture with federal support. “We will have the Metro rail project differently from the past government’s plan, which was not feasible. A new Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be prepared and sent to the Centre for approval,” he added.

The cancellation of the Bhubaneswar Metro project marks a significant shift in urban planning strategies for the state. As the debate continues, the focus will be on how the government develops a new approach to enhance urban mobility in Bhubaneswar, a city that has long been in need of modern transportation solutions.