Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop a large-scale Economic Region covering Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri and Paradip, with the aim of transforming the entire corridor into a network of integrated “growth hubs.” The roadmap was discussed at a high-level meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
The Chief Minister directed officials to prepare a special, time-bound programme focused on infrastructure expansion, industrial growth and tourism development. Emphasising coordinated planning, Majhi said the initiative must ensure balanced, inclusive and sustainable development across the region.
A major highlight of the proposal is the construction of three ring roads with a combined length of 645 km to significantly improve regional connectivity. These include a 432 km Capital Region Ring Road linking Paradip, Tangi, Saptasajya, Rameshwar and Puri, to be developed in coordination with the Centre’s proposed 111 km Capital Region Ring Road. Additionally, a 148 km outer ring road is planned from Jatamundi–Trishulia–Urali in Cuttack district through Balipatna, Pipili, Jatani and Khordha, while a 65 km inner ring road will connect Tamando with Chandaka, Pahala and Dhauli.
To further strengthen connectivity, the government has proposed new railway links, including a 32 km line from Puri to Konark and a 70 km line from Konark to Bhubaneswar via Nimapada. These projects are expected to significantly enhance tourism access and ease movement of goods and people.
Officials said improved connectivity with Paradip Port will act as a key driver for industrial expansion. Sectors such as agriculture and fisheries, manufacturing, logistics, port-based industries, chemicals, textiles and information technology are expected to benefit. The tourism sector—particularly in Puri, Konark and surrounding areas—is also likely to see substantial growth.
The Chief Minister instructed departments to maintain close coordination with NITI Aayog to fast-track the project and align it with national development priorities. He also called for the formulation of new policies and amendments to existing ones, wherever necessary, to ensure smooth execution. Special emphasis was laid on upgrading tourism infrastructure and services across the corridor.
The meeting was attended by Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner Anu Garg, Principal Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Saswat Mishra, Director of Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua, and other senior officials.
-OdishaAge
