Bhubaneswar: Odisha has laid out an ambitious and time-bound urban development roadmap aligned with the vision of “Viksit Odisha @2036,” with a strong focus on housing, infrastructure modernisation, and governance reforms aimed at improving the quality of life in urban areas.
Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Odisha Urban Academy, Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra stressed that the department’s success will be measured not only by infrastructure creation but by visible improvements in citizens’ livelihoods, services, and urban living standards.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee and Director of Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua.
The minister reviewed the department’s financial performance and noted that nearly 98% of the allocated budget has already been utilised. He directed officials to ensure that expenditure is translated into tangible outcomes on the ground.
A major announcement during the meeting was the “A Roof for All” initiative, which aims to extend housing coverage to 80% of the urban population by 2036. The programme will cater to Economically Weaker Sections, Low Income Groups, and introduce a rental housing model for migrant and floating populations.
It will be launched in Rourkela before being expanded across other urban centres. District Collectors have been directed to expedite land identification and allocation to ensure swift implementation.
Mahapatra also reviewed the Town Planning Scheme based on a land pooling model, under which 40% of the land will be used for infrastructure development such as roads, drainage, and civic amenities, while 60% will be returned to landowners. The model is expected to support planned urban growth and reduce land-related disputes.
Under the Chief Minister’s Smart City Scheme, 49 cities have been identified for phased development. The minister directed officials to focus on integrated urban transformation, including improved roads, water supply, sewerage systems, drainage, and urban aesthetics.
He also reiterated the government’s commitment under AMRUT to ensure universal access to drinking water at the household level, backed by technology-driven monitoring systems.
Urban flood management emerged as a key priority, with the Minister announcing that a comprehensive Drainage Master Plan is being prepared to address long-standing waterlogging issues.
Detailed Project Reports have already been prepared and funds allocated for priority works. He informed that Gangua Nala and Daya West Canal will be taken up for early rejuvenation through coordinated efforts between the Housing & Urban Development Department and the Water Resources Department.
The government also plans to rejuvenate urban rivers and canals, transforming them into public spaces and tourism hubs aimed at improving livability and supporting local livelihoods.
Strengthening of urban safety was also reviewed, with directions issued for wider CCTV surveillance coverage and deployment of intelligent traffic management systems. The Minister further asked for the early operationalisation of 28 newly formed Urban Local Bodies.
