Odisha Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra chaired a high-level review meeting to assess ongoing urban development and mobility projects, directing officials to accelerate execution and ensure timely utilisation of funds.

The meeting, held at Kharabela Bhawan, reviewed key programmes of the Housing and Urban Development Department. The minister stressed coordinated action, close monitoring and outcome-oriented implementation to ensure projects deliver timely benefits to citizens.

Speaking to the media, Dr Mahapatra said the government is working to expand affordable housing for different income groups. Discussions focused on developing housing models for Economically Weaker Sections, Low Income Groups and Middle Income Groups, along with rental housing solutions.

The minister said a technical team would be deputed to Maharashtra to examine the feasibility of adopting precast construction technology in Odisha. The team will study initiatives such as the “Mission 100” model, which aims to construct 100 houses in 100 days.

The government is also planning to expand Town Planning Schemes across larger urban areas to promote systematic and planned growth.

On urban mobility, Mahapatra highlighted plans to expand the “Odisha Yatri” initiative across cities. The move aims to provide convenient mobility options while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for drivers.

The meeting also reviewed monsoon-related damage to roads and drainage infrastructure. Officials were directed to expedite repairs and restoration and speed up Storm Water Drainage Master Plans across Urban Local Bodies.

The minister further called for strengthening Development Authorities across districts to improve town planning and urban expansion. He directed officials to maintain field-level monitoring and complete projects within defined timelines.

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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.

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