The Union government is planning to introduce a Namo Bharat rapid rail service between Bhubaneswar and Cuttack to strengthen urban transport connectivity between the two major cities of Odisha. The proposal was announced by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who stated that the project is currently under consideration as part of efforts to improve public transportation in the region.
The proposed service is expected to operate on the lines of the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail system, similar to the Delhi–Meerut regional rapid transit corridor. The initiative aims to provide faster, high-frequency commuter connectivity between the twin cities, which are located about 25 kilometres apart and witness heavy daily passenger movement.
Officials indicated that the rapid rail system could serve as a cost-effective alternative to the previously proposed metro project for the Bhubaneswar–Cuttack corridor. Compared with metro rail systems that require extensive elevated or underground infrastructure, the Namo Bharat model can be developed with surface or semi-high-speed rail infrastructure, reducing project costs and construction timelines.
If implemented, the project would significantly enhance regional mobility, support urban expansion and strengthen economic linkages between the two cities. The service is expected to ease road congestion and offer faster daily commuting options for thousands of passengers traveling between Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
Further feasibility studies and planning will determine the final alignment, investment structure and implementation timeline for the proposed rapid rail corridor.
