The ambitious metro rail project in Bhubaneswar has been shelved after the Odisha government decided not to proceed with it.

Following this, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) terminated construction contracts awarded to Ceigall India Limited for building viaducts and six stations in Bhubaneswar.

The DMRC, appointed as a turnkey consultant, had signed an MoU with the state-owned Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation in November 2023 to develop a world-class urban transport system.

The decision sparked criticism from Opposition parties. Congress leader Jaydev Jena accused the BJP government of “telling lies for a year”.

Ceigall India said it would pursue legal remedies for damages and compensation. The cancelled contract included construction of an elevated viaduct and stations at Nandan Vihar, Raghunathpur, Nandankanan, Barang, Phulapokhari and Trisulia Square.

Launched on January 1, 2024, the ₹6,255.94-crore project was to connect Biju Patnaik Airport to Trisulia over 26km.