ADB Partners with Odisha Government to Develop Sustainable Urban Mobility Framework for BKPPER

The Odisha Government, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has initiated work on developing a sustainable urban mobility framework for the Bhubaneswar–Kataka–Puri–Paradip Economic Region (BKPPER).

An inception workshop on the “Preparation of Sustainable Urban Mobility Transition Plans for Odisha” was organised by the Housing & Urban Development Department at Kharavela Bhawan on Thursday.

The initiative focuses on regional mobility planning, transformation of public bus services and strengthening institutional mechanisms for sustainable urban transport. It is aligned with the long-term objectives of Odisha Vision 2036 and Vision 2047.

During the workshop, the ADB team presented key findings and recommendations from its Inception Report. Discussions focused on the Comprehensive Regional Mobility Plan for BKPPER, the Bus Service Transformation Roadmap and the Draft Odisha Transit-Oriented Development Policy.

Additional Chief Chief Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department, Usha Padhee, stressed that the exercise should result in an implementable framework rather than remain limited to a policy document. She highlighted the importance of coordinated mobility planning as Odisha enters a significant phase of urbanisation.

ADB Transport Sector Office Director Kanzo Nakai underlined the connection between mobility, urban productivity and economic development. He said Odisha has an opportunity to avoid car-centric urban development patterns and adopt more integrated and sustainable transport systems.

The workshop was attended by senior officials from the Transport Department, Municipal Administration, CRUT, IDCO, BDA, Works Department, OSRTC, Police and district administrations of Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Puri and Khordha.

The deliberations are expected to support an integrated mobility transition framework focused on efficient, inclusive, connected and sustainable urban transport in Odisha.