Aparajita Sarangi Urges Odisha CM to Reconsider Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project

Sarangi described the closure as abrupt and against public interest. She highlighted Bhubaneswar’s rapid urbanisation and growing traffic congestion, stressing the need for a modern, sustainable transport system. She said the Metro Rail would provide long-term, high-capacity and cost-efficient connectivity, benefiting Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Jatani and Khordha.

The MP emphasised that the Metro project would serve senior citizens, women, students, professionals, vendors and differently abled persons. She linked the project to Odisha’s ambition of becoming an investor-friendly state, noting that modern transport boosts tourism and economic activity. She added that a Metro network would improve access to key tourist sites such as Lingaraj Temple, Khandagiri-Udayagiri, Dhauli and Nandankanan Zoo.

Sarangi pointed out that Rs 274 crore has already been spent. Shelving the project now could escalate costs two to four times if revived later. She argued that population benchmarks or financial feasibility alone should not determine the project’s fate, citing examples of Tier II cities where Metro systems operate despite lower thresholds.

She described Metro projects as public-interest infrastructure, often subsidised by governments, and as catalysts for job creation, economic growth and improved quality of life. Sarangi questioned whether Odisha should lag behind when many cities across India are expanding Metro networks. She offered her support to coordinate with the Centre and explore funding options to move the project forward.

I have spoken to Hon’ble CM Sri @MohanMOdisha & requested him to kindly consider revisiting the State Cabinet Decision of suspending the implementation of Metro Rail Project for Bhubaneswar .
“Some projects are done for public good and not for profit .”
My written submission… pic.twitter.com/4e3YXiIYGs

— Aparajita Sarangi, MP,( Lok Sabha) Bhubaneswar (@AprajitaSarangi) April 10, 2026