BHUBANESWAR: Minister for housing and urban affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday announced several key initiatives aimed at transforming Odisha‘s urban landscape during a comprehensive review meeting here.
They include the development of Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri and Khurda as major growth hubs. Khattar also revealed plans for a new city in Greater Bhubaneswar area, with funding opportunities through the 15th Finance Commission and Urban Challenge Fund.
In a boost to sustainable transportation, the Centre approved 400 electric buses for the state under the Pradhan Mantri e-Bus Sewa Scheme. The Bhubaneswar Metro project also received support from the ministry. Housing initiatives received particular attention, with Bhubaneswar being chosen as the launch site for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). A proposal for 50,000 new houses under PMAY-urban is under consideration.
Khattar praised Odisha’s progress in various urban development schemes, including AMRUT and Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0. He emphasised the need for expedited implementation of PM SVANidhi scheme to support street vendors.
Deputy chief minister K V Singh Deo and housing and urban development secretary Usha Padhee gave a presentation on urban activities.
