New Delhi, Delhi, India
A political debate has intensified over the future of the proposed Odisha Metro project, with BJD MP Sasmit Patra expressing strong concern over reports suggesting that the project may be shelved by the state government.
Speaking in Delhi, Patra credited former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for initiating the metro project during his tenure. He stated that significant groundwork, including the preparation of the Detailed Project Report and related planning, had already been undertaken before the change in government in 2024.
Patra alleged that after the new administration came into power, progress on the project came to a halt. “When the double-engine government came to power in 2024, no action was taken on the metro project,” he said, raising concerns over the delay.
Highlighting recent developments, he warned against any move to abandon the project altogether. “Now, it has been reported that the BJP government in Odisha will shut down the metro project; this would be very disastrous for the people of Odisha,” Patra stated, emphasizing the importance of modern urban transport infrastructure for the state’s growth.
The BJD leader also revealed that he has written to Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, outlining possible pathways to revive and implement the metro project through collaborative efforts.
In his communication, Patra referred to key policy frameworks such as the National Urban Transport Policy and the Metro Rail Policy, which allow for joint participation between the Centre and the state. He explained that a 50-50 equity partnership model can be adopted through a Special Purpose Vehicle, enabling both governments to share responsibility and resources.
He further pointed out that central assistance mechanisms, including viability gap funding, are available to support such large-scale infrastructure projects. According to him, these provisions make it feasible for the metro project to move forward if both levels of government work in coordination.
“If the state and central governments work together, this metro project could be implemented,” Patra said, adding that scrapping it entirely would not be an appropriate decision given its potential benefits.
The Odisha Metro project has been seen as a crucial step toward improving urban mobility and addressing future transportation needs in the state.
Patra’s remarks bring the spotlight back on cooperative federalism, highlighting how joint efforts between the Centre and states can play a decisive role in shaping large infrastructure projects and ensuring long-term development.
