In a significant move to transform Bhubaneswar into a modern, prosperous urban hub, the Odisha state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, approved the ‘New City Development’ plan during its 26th meeting on Wednesday.
This ambitious initiative aims to establish a cutting-edge, inclusive urban centre within the Bhubaneswar Development Plan Area (BDPA), spanning approximately 800 acres across Gothapatna, Malipada, and Dasapur mouzas.
The plan aligns with the state’s long-term vision of ‘Viksit Odisha 2036’ and is designed to foster multifaceted economic growth. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, addressing a press conference post-meeting, emphasised that the project will integrate transit-oriented development, efficient public transportation, reduced travel distances, and optimal land use. It prioritises ‘Housing for All’ to cater to diverse income groups, ensuring a range of affordable housing options.
The new city will feature state-of-the-art amenities, including MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities, innovation-driven plug-and-play hubs, and data management centres. To enhance community living and social needs, the development includes a Central Forest Park, Gateway Plaza, and ample public open spaces. Emphasising sustainability, the project incorporates smart and green infrastructure focused on climate resilience and environmental stability.
The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has been designated as the nodal agency for implementation, with ongoing planning and initial works already underway. A key milestone was the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on January 17, 2025, between BDA and Singapore’s Surbana Jurong Infrastructure Pvt Ltd (SJIPL), in the presence of Singapore’s President and Odisha’s Chief Minister. Under this MoU, SJIPL will prepare the master plan and provide urban development consultancy.
Over the next 15 years, BDA plans to invest a total of Rs 8,179 crore, sourced from both government and private sectors. For the first five years (2025-26 to 2029-30), an initial allocation of Rs 1,342 crore from the state budget has been proposed, covering land acquisition, road construction, basic infrastructure, public amenities, and administrative costs.
In addition to this flagship project, the cabinet greenlit four other proposals, bringing the total to five approvals. These include the formulation of rules for recruitment examination fees and refunds, where candidates from general categories (excluding SC, ST, and persons with disabilities) will pay fees. Amendments to the Panchayat Samiti accounting rules were approved, enhancing the financial powers of Block Development Officers (BDOs) for bill approvals to streamline operations.
The cabinet also endorsed amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act and a Health Department proposal to procure 428 new ambulances, aimed at bolstering emergency medical services across the state.
This comprehensive development push is expected to position Bhubaneswar as a model of sustainable urban growth, driving economic prosperity and improving the quality of life for residents.
