Odisha’s Progressive Urban Push
Odisha, under its new government, has been steadily carving a reputation for progressive governance with a focus on balanced growth. From infrastructure expansion to digital governance and people-centric reforms, the state is attempting to set new benchmarks for inclusive development. In line with this vision, the government has unveiled plans for a transformative urban initiative—an 800-acre satellite city near Bhubaneswar, named New Bhubaneswar.
A Modern Satellite City in the Making
The project, spread across Malipada, Daspur, Andharua, and Gothapatna, is set to expand Bhubaneswar’s urban footprint and ease the pressure on its core city areas. Envisioned as a state-of-the-art urban hub, New Bhubaneswar will integrate housing, healthcare, IT, and industrial zones while maintaining open, green, and pedestrian-friendly spaces.
Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra explained that the project is not merely about expansion but about redefining Odisha’s urban narrative. “Along with the growth of the city, we are planning redevelopment of existing areas to ensure balanced urban expansion,” he said, signaling the government’s intent to align infrastructure with population and economic growth.
Singapore Joins Hands with Odisha
To ensure global-level planning and design, the Odisha government has roped in Singapore, a country recognized for its expertise in urban development. Singapore’s technical experts are preparing the masterplan and Detailed Project Report (DPR), supported by state funding. The DPR is expected within the next two months.
The collaboration aims to bring the efficiency and sustainability of Singapore’s urban model into the heart of Odisha while keeping local needs and culture intact. This blend of international best practices with regional identity is expected to give New Bhubaneswar a unique edge.
Inspired by Global Models
Officials confirm that New Bhubaneswar will be modeled after successful urban experiments such as Gujarat’s Dholera Special Investment Region and the GIFT City. Both projects have set standards in integrated city planning, and Odisha hopes to replicate and localize these ideas for its capital region.
Dedicated IT parks to attract global firms, industrial hubs for economic activity, and modern healthcare centers will serve as the backbone of the city. Residential housing complexes with strong public amenities and eco-friendly infrastructure will make the city not just livable but aspirational.
Sustainability at the Core
A key highlight of the project is its emphasis on sustainability. New Bhubaneswar will feature:
· Green zones for environmental balance.
· Energy-efficient infrastructure to reduce the carbon footprint.
· Smart water management to ensure resilience against urban stresses.
· Pedestrian pathways and open spaces to encourage community living.
By embedding these features, Odisha aims to create a self-sustained ecosystem where economic progress does not come at the cost of environmental well-being.
Employment and Economic Prospects
Beyond infrastructure, New Bhubaneswar is also seen as a massive employment generator. The inclusion of IT, healthcare, housing, and industrial sectors is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Small and medium-scale enterprises, startups, and service providers will also find new avenues to thrive within this modern ecosystem.
This multi-sectoral approach aligns with Odisha’s larger ambition of diversifying its economy beyond mining and heavy industries into technology, services, and innovation-led growth.
A City of Aspirations
Minister Mahapatra emphasized that the vision is not just to build another urban cluster but to create a city that resonates with the aspirations of Odisha’s youth and workforce. “This will be a city that provides opportunities, ensures sustainable living, and sets new benchmarks in urban growth for the state,” he said.
Looking Ahead: Odisha’s Urban Future
With the Detailed Project Report underway and strong state commitment, New Bhubaneswar represents one of Odisha’s most ambitious urban experiments yet. Once completed, it will redefine the capital region, offering world-class amenities while complementing Bhubaneswar’s cultural heritage and identity.
The project highlights Odisha’s shift towards future-ready urbanization, one that balances growth with sustainability, global expertise with local ethos, and modern amenities with inclusive opportunities. If executed well, New Bhubaneswar could become a flagship model for emerging cities across India, showcasing how visionary planning can shape not just urban spaces but also the destiny of a state.
(With agency inputs)
