Government claims ₹2,000 crore loss prevented; opposition launches sharp attack
The cancellation of the proposed metro rail project in Bhubaneswar now triggers a sharp political confrontation. While the government defends its decision, opposition leaders strongly criticize the move.
Firstly, Works Minister Prithviraj Harichandan states that the metro project plan prepared by the previous government contains major flaws. He says the plan moves forward without consultation with the central government. Therefore, the government claims it prevents a potential loss of around ₹2,000 crore by stopping the project.
However, BJD MLA Ananta Narayan Jena opposes the decision strongly. He argues that the metro project is designed not only for the people of Bhubaneswar but also for tourists visiting from outside the state. As a result, he claims that cancelling the project pushes the state several years backward in terms of development.
Meanwhile, Congress MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati questions the government’s stance. He points out that the BJP earlier promises to continue the metro project with modifications in the plan. But now, the government completely cancels it. He also demands an explanation for the ₹275 crore already spent and asks why that money goes to waste.
Thus, the metro project issue continues to fuel political tension, and the debate between the government and opposition is likely to intensify further in the coming days.
