The second day of the Collectors and Superintendents of Police joint conference at Lok Seva Bhavan highlighted planned urban development, infrastructure growth, waste management, and citizen facilities.
Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan urged district collectors to prepare long-term urban plans with a vision for the next 50 years. Moreover, he emphasised that urbanisation drives economic growth and must serve as the engine of development. He pointed to government initiatives such as bypass roads, ring roads, and the use of waste materials in road construction. In addition, he stressed the need for utility corridors for electricity, water, gas pipelines, and drainage systems. He also announced a new policy for pothole-free roads and simplified land acquisition.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra focused on slum-free urbanisation. Furthermore, he said the government prioritises relocating slum dwellers to healthier environments with affordable housing. He explained that town planning schemes will expand to cover more areas, ensuring roads, electricity, water, and drainage facilities. He also underlined the importance of waste management, the construction of gaushalas for stray cattle, and planned market complexes. Additionally, he directed collectors to conduct regular inspections in slum areas to curb illegal drugs and the arms trade.
Chief Secretary Usha Padhi presented a detailed plan for integrated urban growth across Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Puri-Paradip and other cities like Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Gopalpur. She highlighted rural-urban policies and digital governance initiatives such as Garima for sanitation workers and Sujog for online citizen services.
Meanwhile, district collectors shared local challenges and solutions. Puri’s collector discussed heritage city planning, while Cuttack’s collector highlighted drainage issues. Kendrapara’s collector presented beautification projects, Nuapada’s collector shared best practices on single-use plastic bans, and Kalahandi’s collector showcased the “Ama Sahayak” WhatsApp chatbot for citizen services.
Overall, the session reinforced Odisha’s commitment to sustainable urbanisation, inclusive housing, and modern infrastructure as part of its vision for a developed state by 2036.
ALSO READ: Odisha CM Majhi Meets 40 Global Delegates in 37th Parliamentary Internship Program
