BSCL begins beautification of Janpath to create greener and cooler urban corridor
Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited (BSCL) has launched a major beautification and landscaping project on Janpath, one of the most prominent and busiest roads in the city.
Officials said the initiative aims at transforming the iconic corridor into a greener, cooler and more attractive public space for residents and visitors.
The redevelopment project focuses on improving the environment while enhancing the visual appeal of the avenue. As cities face increasing temperatures due to rapid urbanisation, BSCL is adopting nature-based solutions to reduce the Urban Heat Island effect. Large shade-giving trees are being planted along Janpath to provide relief from heat, lower surface temperatures, and make walking more comfortable throughout the year.
“The project will significantly increase the city’s green cover. Besides helping reduce heat, the trees and plants will improve air quality, support urban biodiversity, and allow better rainwater absorption into the ground. Several hard surfaces along the stretch are being replaced with planting beds and landscaped areas to create a more sustainable urban environment,” said Managing Director of BSCL, Chanchal Rana.
A major attraction of the project will be the plantation of rows of Tabebuia rosea, known for its beautiful pink flowers. These flowering trees are expected to create stunning seasonal displays and become a popular attraction. The medians will also feature Rudrapalash (Spathodea) trees with bright red flowers, complementing the existing yellow Amaltas trees. Shrubs such as Hamelia and Acalypha, along with groundcover plants like Rhoeo, will add colour and beauty to the corridor.
The project also includes the development of 10 plazas at key locations, including Ekamrakshetra, Master Canteen traffic islands, Rajmahal Flyover underside, IDCO Tower front and OPTCL front. Inspired by Odisha’s culture and traditions, these public spaces will host community activities and events such as Patha Utsav. The beautification work is likely to be completed by August.
Once completed, the revamped Janpath is expected to become one of Bhubaneswar’s most attractive and photographed urban landmarks.
