Bhubaneswar, 10 April (H.S.): The proposed Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project has not been scrapped but temporarily put on hold, Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra clarified on Friday amid intensifying political debate.

The clarification follows recent concerns raised by Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi, which brought renewed focus on the status of the project. Responding to the issue, the minister said the proposal is still under consideration by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and no final decision has been taken.

Mahapatra noted that the Bhubaneswar Metro Corporation office continues to function, indicating that the project has not been abandoned. He added that the plan is currently under review, with discussions ongoing regarding its structure and implementation.

“The project is under consideration, and an inter-ministerial committee is examining all aspects. Any decision will be taken in the best interest of the people,” the minister said.

He further stated that the earlier metro plan had several shortcomings and was not considered viable. The government is also exploring the development of a bypass and preparing a comprehensive urban mobility plan, based on which further steps will be taken.

Reiterating the government’s position, Mahapatra said the metro project remains under active review and has been kept on hold for the time being, not cancelled.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda