Rajasthan Delegation Studies Odisha’s Urban Transformation Model

A high-level delegation from Rajasthan visited Odisha to study the state’s successful urban development initiatives, with a particular focus on water supply, sanitation, urban governance, and citizen-centric service delivery models.

The exposure visit was organized with the support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and involved a nine-member delegation from the Rajasthan Urban Drinking Water, Sewerage and Infrastructure Corporation Limited (RUIDP), Jaipur.

Focus on Odisha’s Urban Development Success Stories

During their visit, the delegation toured several major urban infrastructure projects in Bhubaneswar and Puri. They interacted with senior officials and gained first-hand insights into Odisha’s innovative approaches to urban planning, sanitation management, water supply systems, and public service delivery.

The visit aimed to facilitate knowledge sharing and promote the adoption of successful urban governance practices across states.

Discussion with Housing and Urban Development Department

The delegation held detailed discussions with Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary of Odisha’s Housing and Urban Development Department, at the Odisha Urban Academy.

Padhee presented Odisha’s urban transformation journey and highlighted several flagship initiatives that have helped the state emerge as a national leader in urban development.

She explained how Odisha has built a strong reputation in recent years through innovative governance, sustainable infrastructure, and citizen-focused urban services.

‘Drink From Tap’ Mission Draws Attention

One of the key highlights of the visit was Odisha’s acclaimed “Drink From Tap” mission, which provides 24×7 safe drinking water directly from household taps.

The initiative has gained national recognition and is increasingly being viewed as a model for other states seeking to improve urban water supply systems.

The delegation also reviewed Odisha’s achievements in sanitation, waste management, integrated urban planning, public transport modernization, digital governance, and sustainable infrastructure development.

Rajasthan Delegation Praises Odisha’s Citizen-Centric Approach

Members of the Rajasthan delegation highly appreciated Odisha’s urban service delivery mechanisms, innovative thinking, and effective implementation strategies.

They expressed particular interest in replicating several of Odisha’s successful models in Rajasthan, especially in the areas of water supply, sanitation management, and citizen-centric governance.

According to the visiting officials, Odisha’s approach demonstrates how technology, planning, and efficient administration can significantly improve urban living standards.

Strengthening Inter-State Collaboration

Officials described the visit as an important step toward strengthening cooperation between Odisha and Rajasthan in the field of urban development.

The knowledge exchange is expected to encourage mutual learning, promote best practices, and support future collaborations aimed at improving urban infrastructure and governance systems in both states.

Senior Officials Participate

The interaction was attended by Subhendu Kumar Sahu, Director of Odisha Urban Academy and Additional Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department, along with senior officials from the department and the academy.

The Rajasthan delegation included senior engineers and technical experts from Jaipur, Nathdwara, Dungarpur, Banswara, Nawalgarh, and Jodhpur, representing various levels of urban infrastructure and water management administration.