Bhubaneswar, Sep 23: The proposed Metro Rail project connecting Cuttack and Bhubaneswar remains under active consideration by the Odisha government and has not been cancelled, clarified Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra during the ongoing Monsoon session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly.

Responding to queries in a written statement, the minister stated that the project is currently under review and an Inter-Ministerial Committee has been formed to evaluate its feasibility and implementation strategy. The final decision will be taken after the committee submits its report and recommendations.

So far, ₹277.36 crore has been spent on the project, with ₹252.05 crore disbursed after June 12, 2024. These expenditures reflect the government’s continued commitment to exploring the viability of the metro rail system, which is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and improve urban mobility between the twin cities.

The Metro Rail project has long been seen as a transformative infrastructure initiative for Odisha, aiming to modernize public transport and reduce the burden on existing road networks. The formation of the Inter-Ministerial Committee signals a structured approach to assessing technical, financial, and environmental aspects before moving forward.

Minister Mahapatra emphasized that the government is taking a cautious and data-driven approach to ensure the project’s sustainability and long-term benefits. The review process includes consultations with experts, urban planners, and financial institutions.

Once the committee’s report is finalized, the government will announce its decision regarding the next phase of the project. For now, the Metro Rail initiative remains a priority, with no indication of cancellation.