Viksit Odisha / National Urban Conclave 2026: Odisha Targets 40% Urbanization by 2036

Bhubaneswar, Oct 24: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the National Urban Conclave 2026 in Bhubaneswar today, unveiling a comprehensive roadmap for Greater Bhubaneswar’s urban transformation.

The conclave emphasized integrated development across mobility, infrastructure, water, employment, and smart urban planning, with participation from representatives of multiple states and cities.

Highlighting the importance of modern cities for a prosperous Odisha, the Chief Minister announced that the state’s urbanization rate, currently at 17 per cent, is targeted to reach 40 per cent by 2036.

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He stressed that development will not be confined to Bhubaneswar alone but will extend to adjoining regions, including Cuttack, Puri, and Paradip, forming an economic region with satellite townships and industrial hubs.

Odisha has already attracted investment proposals worth ₹23 lakh crore, with ₹3.5 lakh crore grounded across more than 200 projects.

Urban mobility emerged as a key focus, with discussions around Bhubaneswar’s metro project. As traffic pressure grows in the planned city, surveys are underway to assess future needs.

The Urban Development Minister outlined an integrated mobility model linking buses, rail, metro, feeder services, and last‑mile connectivity. Bhubaneswar Mayor pressed for early implementation of the metro project, arguing it would significantly ease congestion.

The conclave also marked the launch of PM E‑Bus Service, with 26 e‑buses flagged off by the Chief Minister.

Plans include adding 400 more e‑buses, 100 midi e‑buses, and 50 mini e‑buses. The service will expand beyond seven cities to nine more, including Baripada, Anugola, Jharsuguda, Baleshwar, Jajpur, Rayagada, Jaipur, Bhadrak, and Balangir, creating a regional e‑mobility network.