Bhubaneswar: In a major push to accelerate urban transformation, Housing & Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra on Monday unveiled a comprehensive, time-bound roadmap aimed at building future-ready cities across Odisha by 2036.
Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Odisha Urban Academy, the Minister stressed that urban development must go beyond infrastructure creation and deliver tangible improvements in quality of life, livelihoods, and economic resilience. Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee and Director of Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua, participated in the deliberations.
Reviewing the department’s financial performance, Mahapatra noted that nearly 98 per cent of the allocated budget has already been utilised and directed officials to ensure that this translates into measurable outcomes on the ground.
A key highlight of the meeting was the announcement of the “A Roof for All” initiative, which aims to provide housing coverage to 80 per cent of the urban population by 2036. The programme will adopt a three-tier model catering to Economically Weaker Sections, Low Income Groups, and a dedicated rental housing segment for migrant populations. The scheme is set to be launched in Rourkela before being expanded to other cities, with district administrations tasked with identifying land for swift implementation.
The Minister also reviewed the Town Planning Scheme based on a land pooling model, under which 40 per cent of land will be allocated for public infrastructure while 60 per cent will be returned to landowners after development. The approach is expected to promote planned urban expansion and reduce disputes.
Progress under the Chief Minister’s Smart City Scheme was also assessed, with 49 cities identified for development in the first phase. Mahapatra directed officials to prioritise integrated infrastructure, including roads, water supply, sewerage, and drainage systems, while ensuring timely implementation through technology-driven monitoring.
Addressing urban flooding, the Minister announced a comprehensive Drainage Master Plan, with priority works identified for the rejuvenation of Gangua Nala and Daya West Canal. He said the projects would be executed in coordination with the Water Resources Department to provide long-term solutions to waterlogging.
Linking environmental sustainability with urban growth, Mahapatra highlighted plans to rejuvenate urban rivers and canals as public spaces and tourism hubs, while also promoting economic opportunities. He further stressed the need to strengthen urban safety and mobility through CCTV surveillance and intelligent traffic management systems.
In a move to enhance governance efficiency, the Minister issued strict timelines for approvals under the SUJOG portal, mandating that all applications be processed within seven days. He warned of salary deductions for officials in case of delays, signalling a strong push for accountability and ease of doing business.
The Minister also directed officials to expedite the development of community infrastructure such as market complexes, community halls, and cremation facilities, emphasising inclusive and citizen-centric urban growth.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Mahapatra called for greater innovation and accountability among officials to realise the vision of a resilient, sustainable, and economically vibrant urban Odisha by 2036.
