BDA Approves Inclusion of 143 Villages to Boost Bhubaneswar’s Urban Growth

Bhubaneswar, April 3 (UNI):
In a major push toward systematic urban expansion, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has approved the inclusion of 143 new revenue villages under its jurisdiction. The decision, taken during the 150th Authority Meeting chaired by Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister of Housing & Urban Development and Public Enterprises and BDA Chairman, marks a significant step in strengthening the city’s urban planning and infrastructure development.

With this move, the total number of revenue villages under BDA’s jurisdiction will rise from 569 to 712, subject to final approval by the state government under Section 3 of the Odisha Development Authorities (ODA) Act, 1982.

Officials stated that the expansion is aimed at addressing the growing challenges of rapid urbanisation, enhancing regional connectivity, and facilitating balanced infrastructure development across Bhubaneswar and its adjoining regions.

Key Highlights from the BDA Authority Meeting:

• Budget Approval:
  The BDA approved an estimated budget of ₹1,536.08 crore for the financial year 2025–26, reinforcing its commitment to strategic urban growth.
• Land Monetisation Strategy:
  To bolster internal revenue, the BDA will initiate the auction of identified land parcels, under a comprehensive land monetisation plan.
• New Housing Projects:
  Housing schemes will be launched in Chandrasekharpur, Jagasara, and Sanapalla (Khordha) to meet the growing housing demand.
• Commercial Infrastructure Development:
  The BDA will develop commercial hubs at Patia, the Bhubaneswar Town Centre (BTC) near Master Canteen, and BDA City Centre (popularly known as Nicco Park).
• Comprehensive Road Network Expansion:
  A total of 24 Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP) roads are set to be developed across the city. Notable among them are:
  • Approach road to New Bhubaneswar Railway Station (via Jaydev Vihar–Nandankanan Road in Raghunathpur)
  • Nuagaon–Kateni Road, passing through TP Scheme No. 08 and the New City area
  • Chandaka–Khandagiri to Pitapalli–Baranga Road, also passing through the proposed New City

Background and Significance:

Since its formation in 1983 with 116 villages, the BDA has steadily expanded its jurisdiction in 2002, 2003, and 2011. The latest addition of 143 villages reflects Bhubaneswar’s dynamic urban needs and aligns with the state’s long-term infrastructure and regional planning vision.

The meeting was attended by key officials including BMC Mayor Sulochana Das, Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, Jatni Municipality Chairman Ananta Behera, Khordha Municipality Chairman Kanak Laxmi Mohanty, Principal Secretary Usha Padhi, BDA Vice Chairman N. Thirumala Naik, and other senior officials.

This expansion is poised to catalyze economic growth, improve governance at the local level, and set a roadmap for a smart and inclusive Bhubaneswar.