India, March 13 -- The long-awaited metro rail project between Bhubaneswar and Cuttack is unlikely to become operational in the near future, as the Centre is considering an alternative rapid rail service. The Union government plans to introduce a Namo Bharat RapidX train to strengthen public transport connectivity between the twin cities.

Railway Minister responds in Rajya Sabha Responding to a query by Rajya Sabha member Sulata Deo, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed Parliament that the government is working on plans to operate Namo Bharat trains between the two cities.

He said several infrastructure projects are being taken up to improve connectivity between the twin cities, including a newly sanctioned four-lane paralle...