Bhubaneswar, April 10 – Member of Parliament Aparajita Sarangi wrote a letter to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday, strongly urging the Odisha government to reconsider its recent decision to halt the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project.
In her letter, Sarangi emphasized that Bhubaneswar is at a "critical juncture" due to rapid urbanization, increasing traffic congestion, and the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions.
"Bhubaneswar has been experiencing rapid urbanization and population growth in recent years, leading to increased traffic congestion, increased pressure on existing public transport systems, and a growing demand for sustainable urban mobility solutions. The city is now at a critical point. We need a high-capacity, cost-effective, and modern public transport system," she said.
She argued that a Metro Rail system is the most viable long-term solution to transform public transport in Bhubaneswar and its adjoining areas, including Cuttack, Jatni, and Khurda.
"The Metro is the most viable long-term solution that can transform public transport in the city and surrounding areas, including Cuttack, Jatni, and Khurdha. The Metro will provide better transport facilities for senior citizens, women, children, students, working professionals, vendors, and people with disabilities," she said.
Sarangi further emphasized that shelving the Metro Rail Project would impact job creation, economic stimulation, and planned urban development.
"Halting the Metro Rail Project means missing out on multiplier effects such as job creation, economic stimulation, and urban development," she wrote, stressing that the project is not merely about transportation but about shaping Bhubaneswar into a modern, smart city," she said.
Highlighting key points, she stated that the combined population of Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Khurda justifies the need for a metro system. She also pointed out that metro connectivity would boost tourism by providing easier access to major landmarks such as Lingaraj Temple, Dhauli, and Nandankanan Zoological Park.
Additionally, she underscored that the project aligns with Odisha’s vision of becoming investment-friendly and future-ready. She noted that over Rs 274 crore has already been spent, and any delay could escalate costs two to four times in the future. She also emphasized that metro projects across India are subsidized and not designed for immediate profitability.
She added further that the country has already operationalised metro systems in 18 cities, under construction in 16, and in planning stages in 12 others, including several Tier-2 cities.
Sarangi concluded by offering to facilitate coordination with Central departments and explore funding support from the Centre, urging the Chief Minister to reconsider the state Cabinet's April 4 decision.
