Bhubaneswar, Mar 14: In another major step, the Odisha government has decided to extend the Metro rail project to Puri to ease communication for Lord Jagannath devotees.

Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra said, "We are examining the possibility of extending the Metro rail to Puri. A high-level committee has been formed for this purpose." H said the present DPR could be changed for the extension. The committee will look into all aspects. A final decision would be taken after the report is submitted to the state government, he said.

As per the DPR, the Metro work is underway, he added.

The Minister said the committee would visit various metro stations across the country and make a proper plan. Talks are underway to make a route and stoppages. On the other hand, Minister Krishna Chandra Mohapatra said that a study is underway to prevent the occurrence of accidents by 'Mo Bus' in the State. CCTV cameras will be installed in the front and rear of the bus.

"We will find out who is at fault. The drivers are being asked to be conscious. Drivers are checked three times a day to know if they have drunk liquor," he said, adding that drivers have been suspended in seven cases. A letter has been written to the RTO to cancel their license. They have no right to play with people's lives.