Viksit Odisha / Odisha Gears Up to Host Urban Mobility India Conference; Minister Reviews Preparations

Bhubaneswar, Oct 8: Odisha is set to host the 19th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference-cum-Exhibition and the 2nd National Urban Conclave, with the State Government stepping up preparations for the three-day national event scheduled from October 23 to 25 at Hotel Mayfair Sanctuary in Bhubaneswar.

Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra on Thursday reviewed the preparations at a high-level meeting held at Kharavel Bhavan and directed various departments to ensure seamless coordination to make the event a landmark occasion for Odisha.

Organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in collaboration with Odisha's Housing and Urban Development Department and the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), the conference will be held on the theme, "Urban Accessibility and Liveability in the Digital Age: Advancing Rail-led Development."

Focus on Coordination

The review meeting was attended by senior officials and nodal officers from several departments, including Home, Works, Tourism, Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts, Odia Language, Literature and Culture, Information and Public Relations, and Mission Shakti.

Emphasising the national significance of the event, Mahapatra directed all departments to work in close coordination and adhere to timelines. He said preparations should encompass not only the conference venue but also the overall visitor experience, including urban mobility, hospitality, security, infrastructure, cleanliness, beautification, protocol management and cultural showcases.

Opportunity for Odisha

The Minister described the event as an important opportunity for Odisha and eastern India to showcase achievements in urban development and mobility before policymakers, experts, industry leaders and delegates from across the country.

Invoking the spirit of "Atithi Devo Bhava," he said visitors should experience both efficient event management and Odisha's renowned hospitality.

"Our guests should carry back a memorable experience of Odisha," he said, stressing the need for collective efforts across departments.
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Large Delegate Participation Expected

According to officials, the conference is expected to attract 1,000 to 1,500 delegates and feature around 51 exhibition stalls. The event will provide a platform for policy discussions, technology demonstrations, knowledge sharing and industry-government engagement on urban mobility and sustainable city development.

A multi-committee coordination mechanism has been established to oversee finance, logistics, accommodation, exhibitions, seminars, media management, VIP protocol, cultural programmes and essential services.

Expressing confidence in the State's preparedness, Mahapatra said the Housing and Urban Development Department was fully geared up to ensure the successful hosting of the prestigious national event.