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The Odisha government has recently announced the development of the ‘Greater Bhubaneswar Region‘, in a move to redefine urban living and economic growth. This strategic initiative, unveiled by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, marks a significant step towards transforming Odisha’s urban landscape by 2036.
The Scope for Greater Bhubaneswar Region
The Greater Bhubaneswar Region is envisioned to span an impressive 8,500 square kilometers, encompassing key cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, and Paradip. This expansive area will make it larger than both Bengaluru (8,053 square km) and Chennai (8,201 square km), positioning it as one of India’s major urban clusters.
Infrastructure Enhancements for Bhubaneswar Satellite City
The primary objective behind this grand vision is to foster economic prosperity and urban development. According to CM Majhi, the plan is essential for both urbanization and economic perspectives to build a developed Odisha. He emphasized the need to envision urban growth for the next 50 years, highlighting the project’s long-term implications. To support this vast urban project, several key infrastructure initiatives are in the pipeline:
- Satellite City Near Bhubaneswar : A new satellite city is planned to alleviate the pressure on the existing infrastructure in Bhubaneswar due to its growing population.
- Metro Rail Odisha: Introduction of metro rail systems to enhance connectivity and ease transportation within the region.
Current and Future Urban Planning
Currently, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) oversees an area of 419 square kilometers, which includes Bhubaneswar and its surrounding suburban and rural areas. The idea of a Greater Capital Region was first proposed in 2016 with a ring road alignment, but the current plan extends this vision significantly:
- Inclusion of Cuttack, Puri, and Paradip: The new plan aims to integrate these cities into a cohesive urban development framework.
- Proposed Puri Airport: Puri is set to host a new international airport, which will serve as the main aviation hub for the Greater Bhubaneswar Region.
Economic Hubs within the Greater Bhubaneswar Region
The region will not only focus on residential and infrastructural development but also on establishing major economic hubs:
- Paradip Port: Known for its maritime capabilities, Paradip will be a focal point for trade and commerce.
- Paradip Chemical and Petrochemical Region: This area will boost industrial activities, furthering Odisha’s industrial growth.
Population and Growth Projections
The initial population within the newly proposed Greater Bhubaneswar is estimated at around 40 lakh, with projections to exceed 50 lakh in the next decade. The project’s development was discussed in a high-level meeting at Lok Seva Bhavan, attended by key figures including Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra and Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja. This meeting underscored the government’s commitment to this transformative project.
