Centre Explores Namo Bharat Rapid Rail Service for Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Corridor
In a significant development for urban transport in Odisha, the Central Government is actively considering the introduction of a Namo Bharat rapid rail service between Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw made this announcement during a session in the Rajya Sabha, revealing that the government is currently examining the feasibility of this project, which draws inspiration from the successful Delhi-Meerut corridor.
New Railway Line to Enable High-Frequency Service
Minister Vaishnaw elaborated that a new railway line is being sanctioned specifically to accommodate the Namo Bharat rapid rail service on the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack route. "Trains can run frequently on this line. People can get a train every half an hour to travel between the twin cities," he stated, emphasizing the convenience this would offer daily commuters. He attributed this initiative to the "double-engine government", highlighting coordinated efforts between state and central authorities to enhance infrastructure.
Cost-Effective Alternative to Metro Rail
The proposal comes amid ongoing discussions about providing metro rail services between Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. Vaishnaw pointed out that experts have advocated for a more economical solution for urban transport. "If we construct a rapid transit system on the surface, it will cost Rs 30 crore per kilometre. But it may cost Rs 300 crore per km if we construct a metro rail-like system on an elevated corridor," he explained. He stressed the importance of prudent public spending, adding, "We should spend public money in a better way."
What is Namo Bharat Rapid Rail?
Namo Bharat represents India's inaugural regional rail system designed to connect major urban centers. It is characterized as a high-speed, high-frequency, and sustainable rail network, capable of operating at speeds up to 180 kmph with an average speed of 100 kmph. The first corridor, linking Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Meerut, is projected to slash travel time between Delhi and Meerut to under 60 minutes, setting a precedent for similar projects nationwide.
Local Support and Previous Initiatives
Ekamra Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh expressed gratitude to Minister Vaishnaw on Saturday, endorsing the Namo Bharat train as a "good step to save money and provide better facilities to passengers" traveling between the state capital and Cuttack. This announcement builds upon earlier transport initiatives in the region. In May 2023, Vaishnaw had also revealed plans for Vande Metro trains to operate from Cuttack and Bhubaneswar to Puri. These trains are tailored for short-distance routes of 50-60 km, such as Cuttack-Bhubaneswar and Lingaraj Temple (Bhubaneswar)-Puri, functioning like efficient shuttles.
The proposed Namo Bharat service aims to revolutionize inter-city travel in Odisha, offering a faster, more reliable, and cost-efficient alternative to existing transport options. As the government continues its assessment, residents of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack await further details on this promising infrastructure project that could significantly ease daily commutes and boost regional connectivity.
