THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR/NEW
DELHI, MAY 12, 2026
Reaffirming its
position as a frontrunner in transformative urban governance, the Government of
Odisha presented an ambitious “Next-Generation Urban Growth Roadmap” at the 1st
National Apex Committee Meeting on the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF), chaired by
Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar in New Delhi
on Monday.
Representing Odisha, Additional
Chief Secretary - H&UD Usha Padhee showcased a strategic portfolio of five
major urban infrastructure projects worth over ₹5,000 crore under the Urban Challenge Fund framework. The
proposed initiatives are aimed at accelerating the development of resilient,
inclusive, and technology-enabled urban ecosystems across the
State.
The presentation
highlighted Odisha’s evolving urban development model that prioritizes
sustainable infrastructure, climate resilience, digital governance, and
citizen-centric growth. The roadmap envisions cities that are not only
economically vibrant and technologically advanced, but also environmentally
sustainable and socially inclusive.
Odisha presented a
strong portfolio of high-impact urban projects focused on integrated
infrastructure development, improved civic services, enhanced mobility, and
better urban living standards.
The proposed projects
place significant emphasis on flood mitigation, scientific drainage systems,
expansion of urban green spaces, sustainable water management, and
climate-adaptive infrastructure to build future-ready cities.
The roadmap also
seeks to ensure that the benefits of urban growth reach every section of
society, with special focus on vulnerable communities, women, street vendors,
and economically weaker sections through equitable access to urban services and
opportunities.
Odisha further
highlighted the integration of smart technologies, digital platforms, and
data-driven governance systems to enhance transparency, efficiency, and
responsiveness in urban administration and municipal service delivery.
Speaking at the
meeting, ACS Padhee said that Odisha’s vision extends beyond conventional infrastructure
expansion. “Our focus is on creating durable and future-ready urban ecosystems.
Through the Urban Challenge Fund, Odisha is committed to implementing
innovative urban solutions that balance rapid economic growth with
environmental sustainability and social equity,” she said.
The National Apex
Committee appreciated Odisha’s proactive planning, reform-oriented governance,
and consistent performance in urban development initiatives. The State’s
presentation was widely acknowledged as a model for integrated and
forward-looking urban transformation.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and representatives from various States attended the meeting, where Odisha was recognised among the leading performers in the urban development sector.
With its strong policy direction and implementation-driven approach, Odisha continues to emerge as a national benchmark in urban rejuvenation and sustainable city development, aligned with the broader vision of building inclusive and future-ready urban India.
