CAG Launches Urban Mobility Audit in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack: What to Expect?

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India is initiating a compliance audit focused on urban mobility in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack for the fiscal year 2026–27. This audit is part of a nationwide effort involving 101 cities. The audit will evaluate urban transport systems, service delivery, and infrastructure. An introductory meeting was held to discuss the audit framework and encourage collaboration among various departments. This initiative aims to enhance understanding of urban mobility challenges and improve transportation services in these cities.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 27, 2026, 10:18 IST

Overview of the Urban Mobility Audit

Bhubaneswar: The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India is set to conduct a citizen-focused compliance audit on urban mobility in the cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack for the fiscal year 2026–27. This initiative is part of a broader national effort that will encompass 101 cities across the country, as announced by officials on Tuesday.

An introductory conference for this audit took place at Kharavela Bhawan, presided over by Usha Padhee, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development department.

The audit aims to assess various elements of urban transportation systems, the effectiveness of service delivery, the implementation of policies, and the infrastructure related to mobility in these twin cities.

Key figures at the meeting included Subu R, Principal Accountant General (Audit-I) for Odisha, Deputy Accountant General Balakrishna, and other members of the audit team, who outlined the audit's framework, methodology, timelines, and the primary service areas to be evaluated.

The Accountant General's office has requested collaboration from all relevant departments and agencies, urging them to appoint a nodal officer from the Housing and Urban Development department to facilitate the audit process.

During the meeting, Padhee expressed her commitment to fully support the audit team and encouraged departmental officials and involved agencies to share their operational challenges and concerns with the auditors for constructive dialogue and actionable recommendations.

"This audit will enhance our understanding of the urban mobility landscape and the challenges it faces," stated an official. The meeting also covered the logistics and deadlines for completing the audit.

Attendees included Municipal Administration Director Arindam Dakua, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation Commissioner Chanchal Rana, and senior officials from various agencies such as the Bhubaneswar Development Authority, CRUT, Cuttack Municipal Corporation, Cuttack Development Authority, Smart City Limited, the Commerce and Transport department, the State Transport Authority, the Odisha State Pollution Control Board, the Home department, and other key stakeholders.