Bhubaneswar: In a move to redefine urban connectivity and accommodate growing population demands, the Odisha government has unveiled an ambitious plan to integrate Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Puri under a “Triple City” initiative.
At the heart of this vision lies the construction of a mega ring road project aimed at seamless connectivity between the three urban centers.
Announcing the plan on Tuesday, Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said the project is being designed to address urban expansion and facilitate better connectivity. “We are conceptualizing the ring road plan in collaboration with the Works Department and the Revenue and Disaster Management Department. This initiative is essential to accommodate the growing population and enhance urban development in these cities,” Mahapatra stated.
The Minister further highlighted the government’s goal of transforming Bhubaneswar into a Greater Bhubaneswar area while ensuring balanced development across the connected cities. The proposed ring road will provide alternative routes, reducing congestion and creating smoother links between Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Puri.
“All plans and proposals are aimed at improving the lives of people. The triple-city initiative and ring road projects will be a top priority in the coming year,” Mahapatra added.
The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has proposed a 64.9-km-long ring road within its planning area. Land acquisition has delayed progress, but the BDA is addressing the issue through a town planning scheme. Under this plan, land is taken from owners for redevelopment and later returned, with portions retained to facilitate the ring road’s construction.
Additionally, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) is spearheading a six-lane Capital Region Ring Road project, covering 40 km. NHAI recently floated a tender for this initiative, which aims to bolster connectivity and support regional integration.
These projects mark a significant step in the Odisha government’s long-term vision to promote urban development and cater to the rising demands of its expanding population.
