Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cabinet has given in-principle approval to the “New City Development Scheme”, which aims to create a modern and inclusive urban hub within the Bhubaneswar Development Plan Area (BDPA).
Covering nearly 800 acres across Gothapatna, Malipada, and Daspur, this project is envisioned as a multi-economic growth zone aligned with the state’s long-term development vision, “Vikshit Odisha 2036.”
According to Odisha chief secretary Manoj Ahuja, the new city is planned as Transit-Oriented Development, with focus on efficient public transport, reduced travel distances, and seamless land-use integration to ensure “Housing for All” with diverse, affordable housing options for all income groups.
The plan includes world-class infrastructure with MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities, innovation-driven plug-and-play hubs, and data management centres.
There will be emphasis on citizen-centric place-making, including central forest parks, gateway plazas, and ample open spaces to promote community engagement. Sustainable infrastructure will be integrated to strengthen climate resilience and improve quality of life, Ahuja said.
The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has been designated as the nodal agency for the scheme. A significant milestone was the signing of an MoU between BDA and Surbana Jurong Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. (Singapore) on January 17, 2025, in the presence of the president of Singapore and the chief minister of Odisha. Under this partnership, Surbana Jurong will provide consultancy services for the township’s master plan and infrastructure advisory.
“The BDA has projected a total investment of Rs 8,179 crore over 15 years, with funding expected from both public and private sources. An initial Rs 1,342 crore allocation has been proposed in the state budget for 2025–30, to be utilized for land acquisition, road construction, utility infrastructure, and administrative requirements,” the chief secretary said.
The 26th meeting of the Odisha cabinet, held on Wednesday, approved a total of five proposals, one each from the Housing and Urban Development Department, Health and Family Welfare Department, Commerce and Transport Department, General Administration and Public Grievance Department, and Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department.
