In a decisive push towards shaping a future-ready urban Odisha, the Minister for Housing & Urban Development, Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, today chaired a high-level review meeting at the Odisha Urban Academy, outlining an ambitious and time-bound roadmap aligned with the vision of “Viksit Odisha @2036.” The meeting was attended by senior officials including Smt Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department, Director of Municipal Administration Shri Arindam Dakua, and heads of key urban verticals.
At the outset, the Minister emphasized that the true measure of success for the department lies not merely in infrastructure creation, but in its ability to bring visible improvements in the quality of life, livelihoods, and economic resilience of urban citizens. Reviewing financial performance, he noted that nearly 98% of the allocated budget has already been utilized and stressed the importance of ensuring that this expenditure translates into tangible outcomes at the grassroots level.
A major highlight of the review was the Minister’s announcement of the ambitious “A Roof for All” initiative, which aims to provide housing coverage to 80% of the urban population by 2036. The initiative will follow a structured three-tier approach catering to Economically Weaker Sections, Low Income Groups, and a dedicated Rental Housing model designed especially for migrant and floating populations. The programme is set to be launched initially in Rourkela, with plans for phased expansion to other cities. To facilitate swift implementation, District Collectors have been directed to identify and allocate suitable land on priority, ensuring that projects commence without delay.
Reinforcing the need for planned and scientific urban expansion, the Minister reviewed the Town Planning Scheme, which adopts a land pooling model to enable systematic development. Under this approach, 40% of the land is earmarked for essential public infrastructure such as roads, drainage, and civic amenities, while 60% of the developed land is returned to the original landowners. This model is expected to promote organized growth, minimize disputes, and ensure the creation of well-serviced urban areas.
The Minister also reviewed progress under the Chief Minister’s Smart City Scheme, under which 49 cities have been identified for development in the first phase. He directed officials to focus on comprehensive urban transformation through modern road networks, improved water supply systems, efficient sewerage and drainage infrastructure, and enhanced urban aesthetics. These cities, he noted, must evolve as growth engines that reflect both global standards and local aspirations. In line with this vision, he reiterated the Government’s commitment under AMRUT to ensure universal household-level drinking water supply, tailored to the specific needs of each urban center, and stressed the importance of timely project completion supported by technology-driven monitoring.
Highlighting the critical importance of urban flood management, the Minister, while briefing the media after the review meeting, informed that a comprehensive Drainage Master Plan is being undertaken to provide a long-term and sustainable solution to waterlogging and stormwater management in major urban areas. Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra stated that Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) have already been prepared and necessary funds have been allocated for priority interventions. In particular, he announced that the Gangua Nala and Daya West Canal will be taken up for early rejuvenation. The works will be executed in close coordination between the Housing & Urban Development Department and the Water Resources (Irrigation) Department to ensure an integrated and effective outcome. He emphasized that addressing urban flooding is a key priority aligned with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision for resilient and sustainable urban infrastructure, and assured that the initiatives will deliver visible improvements in a time-bound manner.
Further, linking ecology with urban development, the Minister reiterated plans for the rejuvenation of urban rivers and canals, transforming them into vibrant public spaces and tourism hubs. This initiative is expected to enhance urban livability while also generating economic opportunities and supporting local livelihoods. Alongside this, he emphasized strengthening urban safety and mobility through the installation of CCTV surveillance systems and the implementation of intelligent traffic management solutions. He also directed that the 28 newly constituted Urban Local Bodies be made fully operational at the earliest to ensure effective delivery of civic services.
In a strong push for administrative efficiency and accountability, Dr. Mahapatra issued strict directives regarding the “SUJOG” mandating that all approvals be processed within a maximum of seven days, significantly reducing earlier timelines that extended up to six months. He further announced a stringent penalty mechanism, stating that delays more time limit would result in direct salary deductions from the officials responsible. This reform is aimed at eliminating bureaucratic delays, enhancing transparency, and improving the overall ease of doing business in the state.
The Minister also underscored the importance of developing community-centric infrastructure, directing officials to expedite the construction of market complexes, community halls, and cremation and burial facilities. He emphasized that urban development must be inclusive and humane, ensuring dignity and access to essential services for all sections of society.
Concluding the meeting, the Minister called upon all officials to work with renewed dedication, innovation, and accountability to realize the vision of Viksit Odisha @2036. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to building cities that are economically vibrant, infrastructure-rich, sustainable, and citizen-centric, reflecting the aspirations of a developed and progressive Odisha.
