BDA Approves ₹1,536 Crore Budget and Expansion of Jurisdiction in Landmark 150th Authority Meeting

Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) held its 150th Authority Meeting today under the chairmanship of Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Hon’ble Minister for Housing & Urban Development and Public Enterprises, and BDA Chairman. The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Babu Singh, Hon’ble MLA, Ekamra, Smt. Sulochana Das, Mayor of Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation, and senior officials from various urban development bodies.

During the meeting, the Authority approved an estimated budget of ₹1,536.08 crore for the financial year 2025-26 and reviewed the revised budget estimates for 2024-25. This financial plan is set to support significant urban development initiatives across Bhubaneswar.

In a major decision aimed at urban expansion, BDA approved the inclusion of 143 new revenue villages within its jurisdiction. Currently overseeing four Urban Local Bodies, including Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the municipalities of Khordha and Jatni, BDA’s expansion will bring the total number of villages under its authority from 569 to 712. Officials highlighted that this move is a crucial step towards systematic urban growth, enhanced infrastructure, and addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization.

Since its inception in 1983 with just 116 revenue villages, BDA has undergone multiple expansions in 2002, 2003, and 2011. The latest expansion aligns with Bhubaneswar’s strategic urban planning and major infrastructure projects designed to boost regional connectivity. Following today’s approval, the expansion proposal will be forwarded to the State Government for consideration under Section 3 of the ODA Act, 1982.

The meeting also focused on generating revenue through land monetization. Several identified land patches will be auctioned as part of this initiative. Furthermore, BDA approved new housing projects at Chandrasekharpur, Jagasara, and Sanapalla in Khordha, alongside the development of commercial spaces at Patia. Another significant proposal approved was the development of the Bhubaneswar Town Centre (BTC) at Master Canteen and the BDA City Centre, widely known as Nicco Park.

To enhance road infrastructure, the BDA sanctioned the development of 24 Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) roads across the city. Key projects include the approach road to New Bhubaneswar Railway Station, connectivity from Jaydev Vihar to Nandankanan Road in Raghunathpur, and road networks linking Nuagaon-Kateni Road with the designated area for the New City. Additionally, major road expansions are planned along Chandaka-Khandagiri Road to Pitapalli-Baranga Road, integrating with urban transport networks and new township developments.