BJD MLA Criticizes Odisha Government Over Alleged Halt of Metro Project

BJD MLA Ananta Narayan Jena on Sunday strongly criticised the Odisha government over the alleged halt of the metro project, calling the decision 'unfortunate' and politically motivated. Jena alleged that the project was stopped to prevent the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) from gaining political mileage. He expressed concern that Odisha may never witness a metro system if such decisions continue. Highlighting the importance of the project, the MLA said that more than Rs 272 crore had already been allocated on the metro initiative. He asserted that a metro system is essential for public convenience and urban development. Jena further warned that without a metro network, the state could struggle to attract national and international business investments. He termed the government’s stance against running the metro as a reflection of a 'narrow mindset'. "The halt of the metro project is quite unfortunate. Odisha genuinely needs a metro project. Without a modern metro project, the state may face challenges in attracting both national and international investments. It appears the project was discontinued to prevent the previous government from gaining political mileage. However, governance is a continuous process. Now that a double-engine government is in place, there is an opportunity to take a more progressive and long-term view. Notably, the agency behind the successful Delhi Metro project was also involved in Odisha’s proposed metro plan. The proposed cost of Rs 272 crore represents public money, and instead of halting the project altogether, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) could have been revised. Discontinuing such a critical infrastructure project may reflect a narrow approach," said BJD MLA Ananta Narayan Jena.