Bhubaneswar, April 10: BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi has written to Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi, urging him to reconsider the recent decision to halt the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project.
In her letter, Sarangi emphasized that Bhubaneswar has reached a critical juncture. Rapid urbanization, a growing population, and increasing traffic congestion have put immense pressure on the city’s existing transportation system.
“Our city is transforming quickly. The traffic issue is escalating, and there is a pressing need for better, sustainable, and modern transportation. It is time to adopt a robust and modern public transport system,” she stated.
Sarangi described the metro rail as the best long-term solution, benefiting not only Bhubaneswar but also surrounding areas like Cuttack, Jatni, and Khurda. She highlighted that metro services would provide safe and convenient travel for senior citizens, women, children, students, working individuals, traders, and persons with disabilities.
The BJP MP warned that halting this project would directly impact employment, economic growth, and planned urban development. “Stopping the metro project means losing new job opportunities, economic activities, and overall development for the city. This is not just a transport project; it is a crucial step towards making Bhubaneswar a smart and modern city,” she wrote.
In her letter, Sarangi presented several key statistics and arguments. She pointed out that the combined population of Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Khurda justifies the need for the metro project. Additionally, metro connectivity would enhance access to major tourist attractions like Lingaraj Temple, Dhauli, and Nandankanan Zoological Park, boosting tourism.
Sarangi also noted that this project aligns with Odisha’s goal of becoming an attractive state for investment and future-ready. Over ₹274 crores have already been spent on it, and if delayed, costs could increase two to four times in the future. She clarified that metro projects across the country operate on a subsidy basis and are not designed for immediate profit.
Currently, metro services are operational in 18 cities, with construction ongoing in 16 more, and planning stages in 12 cities, including several tier-2 cities.
Sarangi appealed to the Chief Minister to reconsider the cabinet decision made on April 4. She also assured coordination with central government departments to facilitate funding support.
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