Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today reviewed the ambitious Mahanadi River Front Development Project for Cuttack and directed officials to complete all preliminary formalities at the earliest and begin work immediately.
The project will transform 426 acres of riverbank land in Cuttack at an estimated cost of Rs 210 crore. It is being designed as a national-level tourist attraction that will combine ecological restoration with vibrant public spaces.
As per the National Green Tribunal’s directives, 284 acres will be developed into a lush green belt. The remaining 142 acres will be utilised for tourism and festive activities. Highlights of the project include Odisha Haat, Heritage Village, Picnic Area, Interpretation Centre, Food Court, lawns, gardens and beautification of existing water bodies along the Mahanadi. All works will strictly follow NGT guidelines.
During the review meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan, the Chief Minister stressed that the riverfront should emerge as a landmark destination on par with iconic projects across the country. He asked officials to study the successful Sabarmati Riverfront model in Gujarat for inspiration.
CM Majhi also suggested integrating the beautification of ongoing Water Resources Department projects along the riverbank so that flood-protection infrastructure doubles as tourist-friendly spaces. For the second phase, he recommended beautifying the historic Dhabaleswar Temple area and developing the pathway near the National Law University. He further proposed introducing cruise services on the Mahanadi to enhance visitor experience and assured that additional funds would be sanctioned if required.
Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Additional Chief Secretary (CMO) Saswata Mishra, Additional Chief Secretary (Housing & Urban Development) Usha Padhi, Principal Secretary (Water Resources) Shubha Sarma, Principal Secretary (Finance) Sanjeev Mishra, Director Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua, and Cuttack Municipal Commissioner Kirandeep Kaur Sahota were present at the meeting.
