Odisha Government Approves Municipal Corporation Status for Puri to Boost Urban Infrastructure

Bhubaneswar, July 4 — In a landmark decision aimed at transforming the temple town of Puri into a world-class spiritual and tourist hub, the Odisha Government has decided to upgrade the existing Puri Municipality to a Municipal Corporation.

Announcing the decision at a press conference, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the move is part of the state government’s vision to make Puri India’s No. 1 spiritual and tourist destination, while enhancing urban infrastructure and public amenities for residents, pilgrims, and visitors alike.

“If we dream of a prosperous and developed Odisha, we cannot ignore the need for a beautiful, green, and well-developed Puri. Upgrading it to a municipal corporation is a key step toward that vision,” Majhi stated.

Once formalized, Puri will become the sixth municipal corporation in Odisha, joining the ranks of Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Berhampur, Sambalpur, and Rourkela.

To manage the rising civic demands stemming from the daily influx of thousands of tourists and devotees, the new municipal corporation will not only encompass the current urban limits of Puri municipality but will also include seven to eight surrounding Gram Panchayats from Puri Sadar and Brahmagiri blocks. This will extend improved urban services such as water supply, sanitation, waste management, and road infrastructure to these adjoining areas.

The official process for the formation of Puri Municipal Corporation will begin on Saturday, the Chief Minister confirmed.

Puri, home to the 12th-century Jagannath Temple and a major draw for both domestic and international tourists, has long faced challenges related to narrow streets, open drains, and limited recreational facilities at its iconic sea beach.

Local residents welcomed the decision, calling it long overdue. “This move will improve civic amenities and give the town the attention it deserves,” said Rajendra Das, a Puri resident.

The government hopes that this administrative upgrade will enable better urban planning, enhance revenue generation for local development, and support large-scale infrastructure projects that reflect the town’s cultural and religious significance.