image credits: metrorailnews
Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has recently begun precast construction for the much-anticipated Bhubaneswar Metro project, a move that signals progress and promise for the state’s capital.
Understanding Precast Construction in the Bhubaneswar Metro
Precast construction is a smart and efficient method that involves manufacturing concrete components (such as pillars, beams, and column) off-site in a controlled environment. For the Bhubaneswar Metro, these precast structures are being produced at a dedicated workshop and coach maintenance depot. Once ready, they are transported to the construction site along the 26-km elevated corridor connecting Biju Patnaik International Airport to Trisulia in Cuttack.
This approach ensures high quality, reduces on-site work, and speeds up the building process. Given Bhubaneswar’s location in a seismic zone and its vulnerability to cyclones, these precast elements are designed with disaster resilience in mind, promising a safe and durable metro system for all.
The Role of BMRCL in Shaping Odisha’s Future
The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is the driving force behind this transformative project. Established to oversee the planning and execution of the metro, BMRCL works in close collaboration with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation and private contractors to ensure timely and efficient progress. Under the leadership of in-charge CEO Kalyan Patnaik, the corporation has adopted innovative techniques like precasting to maintain quality and meet deadlines. BMRCL is ensuring that the metro not only serves as a transport solution but also as a symbol of our collective ambition.
Budget and Expenditure for Bhubaneswar Metro
The Bhubaneswar Metro project is a significant investment in Odisha’s future, with Phase I estimated at Rs 6,255.94 crore. This budget, fully supported by the state government, covers the construction of the 26-km stretch, including 20 stations, and the procurement of 13 three-coach metro trains. So far, substantial funds have been allocated to preliminary works like soil testing which has already been completed at 50 of 250 planned sites and the setup of the precasting facility at Malipada. The expenditure plan prioritizes efficiency and resilience, with careful attention to creating a system that withstands the region’s environmental challenges.
Plan Layout: Connecting Communities with Care
The metro’s layout is thoughtfully designed to serve the daily needs of Odisha’s residents. Spanning from the airport in Bhubaneswar to Trisulia in Cuttack, the 26-km corridor will feature 20 stations, linking key areas like Jayadev Vihar, Nandankanan, and the twin city centres. Commuters will benefit from reduced travel times (30 minutes between Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, 35 minutes to the railway station, and 45 minutes to the airport).
The elevated design, supported by 13-ft-high precast columns anchored deep for stability, ensures minimal disruption to existing roads while addressing traffic congestion. Future phases aim to extend the network to Khurda, Puri, and beyond, weaving a web of connectivity across Odisha.
