The Union Minister for Housing & Urban Affairs and Power, Shri Manohar Lal, reviewed the implementation and progress of key urban development initiatives and infrastructure projects in Odisha, India. He highlighted the need to develop Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, and Khordha as Growth Hubs to drive regional economic development.
The focus will be on improving infrastructure, encouraging industrial and commercial growth, and promoting sustainable urbanization through strategic planning and public-private partnerships. A major point of discussion was the proposal for developing a new city as part of the Greater Bhubaneswar area.
The Hon’ble Minister assured support for the project and advised the State Government to explore funding opportunities under the 15th Finance Commission and the Urban Challenge Fund. To promote sustainable urban mobility, the Central Government has approved the deployment of 400 electric buses for Odisha under the Pradhan Mantri e-Bus Sewa Scheme.
Bhubaneswar served as the launch site for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), with the proposal for 50,000 new houses under PMAY-Urban (PMAY-2). The Hon’ble Minister lauded Odisha’s progress under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), particularly in achieving milestones such as the 24×7 water supply project currently underway in 18 cities.
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Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, recently conducted a comprehensive review of urban development initiatives in Odisha, focusing on transforming key cities into major economic hubs. The discussions emphasized infrastructure enhancement, sustainable development, and improved urban living standards.
Strategic Focus Areas
- Infrastructure Development: Plans to upgrade transportation networks, water supply systems, and waste management facilities were discussed to ensure robust urban infrastructure. Strategies for developing new urban centers to accommodate the growing population and economic activities were explored. Shri Manohar Lal reviewed Odisha’s urban development plans, focusing on infrastructure, housing, and sustainability for enhanced urban growth.
- Public Transportation: The introduction of electric buses and the development of metro projects aim to provide efficient and eco-friendly transit options. Expanding housing projects under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) to provide affordable housing for all , particularly in achieving milestones such as the 24×7 water supply project currently underway in 18 cities.
In a meeting with Odisha’s Chief Minister, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, the Union Minister discussed enhancing coordination between central and state governments. The focus was on improving infrastructure and living conditions in urban and peri-urban areas. Discussions also covered power sector developments, including fly ash utilization, capacity enhancement, and transmission infrastructure improvements.
Outcomes and Future Prospects
The collaborative efforts between the central and state governments aim to transform Odisha’s urban landscape, making cities more livable and economically vibrant. The focus on sustainable development and infrastructure enhancement is expected to attract investments, boost economic activities, and improve the quality of life for residents.
By implementing these strategic initiatives, Odisha is poised to become a model for urban development, balancing growth with sustainability and inclusivity. Under the The review centered on several critical aspects to bolster urban growth Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, the state has shown commendable improvements in sanitation and waste management.
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