Union Minister Reviews Urban Development in Odisha
Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, recently assessed the progress of key urban development initiatives in Odisha. During his visit, he emphasized the potential of cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, and Khordha as growth hubs for regional economic development. The Minister outlined plans to enhance infrastructure and promote sustainable urbanization through strategic partnerships.
Focus on Growth Hubs
Shri Manohar Lal highlighted the importance of developing Odisha’s urban centers as pivotal growth hubs. He stressed that cities such as Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, and Khordha must be prioritized to stimulate regional economic growth. The Minister pointed out that improving infrastructure is crucial for encouraging industrial and commercial activities. He advocated for sustainable urbanization, which involves careful planning and collaboration between public and private sectors. This approach aims to create a balanced urban environment that supports both economic development and quality of life for residents.
New City Development Proposal
A significant topic of discussion was the proposal to develop a new city within the Greater Bhubaneswar area. The Minister expressed strong support for this initiative and encouraged the State Government to seek funding opportunities through the 15th Finance Commission and the Urban Challenge Fund. This new city is envisioned to alleviate urban congestion and provide better living conditions for residents. By expanding urban infrastructure, the government aims to create a more organized and efficient urban landscape that meets the needs of a growing population.
Advancements in Public Transport and Housing
To enhance sustainable urban mobility, the Central Government has approved the deployment of 400 electric buses in Odisha under the Pradhan Mantri e-Bus Sewa Scheme. The Minister also reviewed the proposed Bhubaneswar Metro project, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to addressing the city’s public transport challenges. In addition, Bhubaneswar was identified as the launch site for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), with discussions surrounding the proposal for 50,000 new houses under PMAY-Urban. The Minister assured that coordination with the State Government would continue to expedite approvals for these housing projects.
Commitment to Urban Transformation
Shri Manohar Lal commended Odisha’s achievements under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), particularly the ongoing 24×7 water supply project in 18 cities. He also acknowledged the state’s progress under the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, which has led to significant improvements in sanitation and waste management. The Minister urged the State Government to prioritize the clearance of legacy waste sites to reclaim land for greener urban spaces. Furthermore, he emphasized the need for intensified implementation of the PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme, advocating for broader outreach and quicker credit access for street vendors across Odisha.
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