Bhubaneswar, Sep 11: In a major push to boost tourism and regional development, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday approved a Rs240-crore project aimed at transforming key stretches of the Mahanadi riverbank into vibrant tourist destinations, officials said.

The project, titled the Mahanadi River Front Development Scheme, will be rolled out over three years from 2025-26 to 2027-28.

Revitalizing Odisha’s Lifeline

The Mahanadi, often referred to as the lifeline of Odisha, spans 851 kilometers, with 494 kilometers flowing through the state. The river touches several culturally and historically significant towns including Cuttack, Sambalpur, Sonepur, Boudh, Birmaharajpur, and Subalaya before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

Officials stated that the development scheme will focus on enhancing the natural beauty of the riverbanks, creating eco-friendly recreational zones, and improving infrastructure to attract both domestic and international tourists.

Multi-Year Implementation Strategy

The Rs240-crore budget will be utilized to build promenades, parks, cultural hubs, and boating facilities along select riverfronts. The project also aims to preserve the ecological integrity of the river while promoting sustainable tourism.

The scheme is expected to generate employment opportunities, stimulate local economies, and reinforce Odisha’s position as a heritage and nature tourism hotspot.

Cultural and Economic Impact

CM Majhi emphasized that the riverfront development will not only beautify the region but also reconnect citizens with the cultural and spiritual significance of the Mahanadi. The project aligns with the state’s broader vision of integrating tourism with environmental stewardship and inclusive growth.