Odisha Plans 1,000-Seat Convention Centre to Transform Puri’s Urban Landscape

Bhubaneswar: Puri is set to get a major urban infrastructure upgrade with the Odisha Government announcing plans to establish a 1,000-seat Multipurpose Convention Centre, a project aimed at positioning the temple city as a leading destination for cultural, business and public events.

The announcement was made by Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra during the State-Level Urban Outreach Programme organised under the theme “Jan Bhagidari for Viksit Odisha: Empowered Citizens – Inclusive Cities – Sustainable Urban Future.”

Conceived as a modern public facility, the proposed convention centre will be developed to host large-scale conferences, exhibitions, cultural performances, government programmes, academic events and community gatherings. Equipped with contemporary infrastructure and adaptable event spaces, the centre is expected to significantly enhance Puri’s capacity to organise national and international events.

The initiative comes as Puri continues to witness growing footfall from pilgrims, tourists and visitors while expanding its identity beyond a religious destination into a centre for culture, tourism and urban development.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mahapatra said the city’s increasing prominence at both national and global levels has created a need for world-class civic infrastructure capable of supporting diverse public activities and visitor experiences.

He stated that the proposed facility would help bridge an important infrastructure gap while opening up opportunities in tourism, cultural engagement, knowledge exchange and local economic growth.

The Minister directed the Commissioner of Puri Municipal Corporation to begin preparatory and administrative processes on priority to ensure early implementation of the project.

As part of a larger urban development strategy, the State Government is also preparing a phased plan to develop similar multipurpose civic facilities in Urban Local Bodies across Odisha to strengthen public amenities and support rapidly evolving urban centres.

The proposal received a positive response from stakeholders and participants at the outreach programme, with many viewing it as an important addition to Puri’s evolving urban landscape.

Once completed, the convention centre is expected to emerge as a landmark civic destination and contribute to strengthening Puri’s status as one of India’s leading spiritual, cultural and tourism hubs.