The ambitious Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Metro project has hit a major roadblock. Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krishna Chandra Mohapatra informed the House that the ₹6,255 crore project—initially planned to connect Bhubaneswar Airport to Trishulia—is now suspended and under review.
The primary reasons for the halt include a lower-than-required passenger count and the need to align with the National Metro Rail Policy. Additionally, the government is re-evaluating technical aspects to ensure long-term viability.
To determine the project's fate, an inter-ministerial committee has been formed alongside the implementation of the "Sustainable Urban Mobility Transition Plan for Odisha."
This comprehensive study will analyze the state's overall transport needs before a final decision is made. For now, the twin cities' dream of a rapid transit system remains in limbo, pending a detailed report on urban mobility transition and committee recommendations.