THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
JULY 21, 2026
In a major push
towards climate-resilient urban infrastructure, the Bhubaneswar Municipal
Corporation (BMC) and the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) have rolled
out a pilot project to install climate-responsive traffic and
parking-cum-commuter shelters along the Smart Janpath corridor, blending
sustainable design with enhanced public convenience.
Implemented under the
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), the initiative is aimed at improving
commuter comfort, promoting greener public spaces and strengthening the city's
efforts to combat rising urban temperatures while contributing to better air
quality. The project also complements the ongoing beautification and
landscaping of the 5.8-km Smart Janpath corridor, one of Bhubaneswar's flagship
urban renewal projects.
As part of the pilot
phase, climate-responsive traffic shelters are being developed at Rupali Square
and Power House Square, two of the city's busiest intersections. Four
parking-cum-commuter shelters are also coming up at strategically identified
locations along the corridor to serve pedestrians, public transport users and
motorists alike.
BMC Commissioner and
BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana said the shelters have been conceived as a
blend of functionality, aesthetics and environmental sustainability. Designed
to offer year-round comfort, the structures incorporate innovative features
that minimise heat exposure while enhancing the visual appeal of public spaces.
One of the project's
defining features is the integration of Flame Vine creepers over specially
designed fabric canopies. As the vines mature, they will form a lush green
cover that naturally lowers heat absorption, creating cooler waiting areas
during the scorching summer months. The shelters are further equipped with
horizontal screening panels positioned between support columns to block direct
sunlight from multiple angles, ensuring greater protection from heat and adverse
weather conditions.
The
parking-cum-commuter shelters have been designed to protect both commuters and
parked vehicles from rain and intense sunlight while doubling as safe and
comfortable waiting areas. The facilities are expected to particularly benefit
senior citizens, pregnant women and other vulnerable road users by providing
shaded, accessible spaces along one of the city's busiest corridors.
Officials said the
initiative reflects Bhubaneswar's growing focus on climate-responsive urban
planning and citizen-centric infrastructure. If the pilot project delivers the
expected results, the model is likely to be replicated at other key locations
across the city, marking another step towards creating a greener, more liveable
and pedestrian-friendly urban environment.
