Technical Committee to Draft Detailed Report
Odisha is gearing up to introduce metro rail services in cities across the state, with the state government preparing to submit a proposal to the Centre for assistance. Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra announced that a technical committee will soon be constituted to lay the groundwork for this ambitious project. The panel will visit various cities, assess local conditions, and prepare a detailed report outlining potential metro routes.
Comprehensive Mobility Plan Finalised
The decision follows a ministerial subcommittee meeting where the state’s Comprehensive Mobility Plan was approved. The upcoming technical panel will not only determine metro routes but also identify parking zones and collect public feedback to ensure the project meets citizens’ needs. Mahapatra stressed that the construction of new metro tracks will be carried out with caution to avoid past mistakes, such as road closures and severe congestion during trial runs.
Learning from Past Failures
“Earlier projects elsewhere faced delays and caused traffic chaos. We will ensure no one is inconvenienced,” Mahapatra said, adding that the committee will recommend routes that minimise disruptions.
Warning from Deputy CM
Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo issued a note of caution, pointing out that metro projects in several other states have struggled financially, forcing governments to bear heavy costs. To avoid similar setbacks, Odisha’s committee will study existing metro systems across India and submit an analysis before moving forward. The government insists it will proceed only after ensuring the project’s feasibility and sustainability.
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