OSHB Plans Major Affordable Housing Expansion Across Odisha

The Odisha State Housing Board (OSHB) is gearing up for a major expansion of affordable and inclusive housing projects across the state. During a high-level review meeting chaired by Additional Chief Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department, Usha Padhee, the Board outlined its ongoing projects and future plans aimed at meeting the housing needs of various income groups.

Over 32,000 Housing Units Developed

Presenting the Board’s progress, OSHB Managing Director Gangadhar Nayak informed that the Board has developed 32,343 housing units, shops, and plots across 21 districts. More than 20,000 of these units have been developed in Khordha district alone, benefiting Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Low Income Groups (LIG), Middle Income Groups (MIG), and High Income Groups (HIG).

Major Housing Projects Underway

The review highlighted five major ongoing projects worth over ₹517 crore, which will create 1,484 housing units across the state.

Among them, the Kharavela Enclave at Jagamara in Bhubaneswar, consisting of 104 HIG apartments, has reached the handover stage. The Anugul Enclave project, with 613 housing units, is progressing steadily and is expected to be completed in phases by 2027.

Other important projects include the Subhadra Enclave at Dumduma, the Vasudev Vihar plotted development scheme at Andharua, and the Gadakana Housing Project, which will provide residential and commercial spaces in Bhubaneswar.

Strong Financial Performance

The Board has emerged as a debt-free organisation and recorded a surplus of ₹18.40 crore during FY 2024-25 and a provisional surplus of ₹25.50 crore in FY 2025-26. As of March 31, 2026, OSHB had an available fund position of ₹37.42 crore.

Nearly 7,000 New Homes Planned

OSHB also reviewed four major projects proposed for FY 2026-27, expected to create nearly 6,877 housing units. These include the Suango PPP Project near AIIMS Bhubaneswar, the Ranasinghpur EPC Housing Project, the Patrapada Housing Project, and the Basanti Colony Residential Apartment Project in Rourkela.

Focus on Social Housing Across All Districts

A key focus of the meeting was OSHB’s plan to expand housing activities to all district headquarters in Odisha. The Board has sought government land in various districts to develop social and affordable housing projects.

Usha Padhee directed officials to prepare a time-bound action plan identifying land availability, project models, and target beneficiaries. She emphasized that social housing must become a priority to meet the growing demand from economically weaker and lower-income urban families.

Government Stresses Timely Execution

The review also addressed issues related to freehold conversion, encroachment removal, infrastructure support, road connectivity, and statutory clearances. The Additional Chief Secretary instructed officials to ensure timely completion of projects, transparent allotment processes, and strict compliance with ORERA regulations.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to affordable housing, Padhee said the focus remains on providing quality, sustainable, and affordable homes to urban residents across Odisha.