Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation (BMRC) has set an ambitious deadline to complete the city's metro rail infrastructure by the end of 2027. The first phase of the metro project, estimated at Rs 6,255.94 crore, will cover 26 km with 20 stations, catering to key areas like educational institutions, hospitals, and commercial complexes.

Soil testing for elevated tracks and station construction is already underway, while work on the metro maintenance depot and control center at Ratagada Lenkasahi has commenced. The command and control center, costing Rs 300 crore, will include both construction and equipment installations.

BMRC CEO Kalyan Pattnaik confirmed that the elevated track construction will begin in April 2024, and the infrastructure is expected to be ready by December 2027, barring unforeseen delays. Construction for precast structures is ongoing at a casting yard in Malipada.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is overseeing the project, with contracts awarded for the first phase stretches to Ranjit Buildcon Ltd and Ceigall India Ltd. The metro will feature elevated tracks that cross major flyovers, with metro stations at least 13 meters above ground.

Initial tenders have been floated for 13 metro trains with three coaches each. The metro service will connect Bhubaneswar airport to Trisulia, with extensions planned to Cuttack, Khurda, and Puri.