Odisha: Mahanadi Riverfront Project in Cuttack Set to Begin Soon

Bhubaneswar, Feb 27 (NationPress) The Mahanadi Riverfront project in Cuttack is poised to start shortly, as announced by Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, the Minister for the Housing & Urban Development (H&UD) Department, on Thursday.

After a high-level meeting at Kharavela Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, Mahapatra stated: "The Mahanadi Riverfront project in Cuttack will take inspiration from the Sabarmati model and is set to begin with an estimated budget of Rs 220 crore. The state government has approved the DPR, and additional funding will be provided if needed. The initial phase aims to be completed before the upcoming Bali Yatra. The project's goal is to enhance civic amenities in Cuttack for recreational purposes."

According to sources, the state government, in partnership with urban development authorities and environmental specialists, has envisioned the Mahanadi Waterfront project in Cuttack.

This groundbreaking initiative is expected to redefine the Mahanadi Riverfront, transforming it into a lively, sustainable, and inclusive area that harmonizes ecological preservation with urban growth.

The H&UD Department indicated that the Mahanadi Riverfront will serve as a premier eco-tourism destination, featuring water sports such as boating, kayaking, and river cruises.

Event spaces will accommodate music and food festivals, local cultural events, and more, drawing both national and international visitors.

Additionally, the project will create accessible parks, playgrounds, and recreational areas for seniors, children, and differently-abled individuals. It will also support local artisans, farmers, and small businesses by establishing markets and kiosks, thereby promoting indigenous craftsmanship and products.

Furthermore, to address seasonal flooding risks, the waterfront will include flood protection measures such as embankments, elevated pathways, and flood barriers.

Green infrastructure solutions, including rainwater harvesting and permeable surfaces, will be implemented to improve climate resilience.

Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, who participated in the high-level meeting, emphasized the project's significance in reshaping the city's landscape. He remarked that this noble initiative will stimulate tourism and economic activities in Cuttack.

"The development will align with NGT guidelines. The rehabilitation of displaced families will be prioritized, with affordable housing options included under government schemes. The riverfront project is projected to attract an investment of Rs 400 crore, with a full completion timeline of three years. The first phase is scheduled for completion before the upcoming Bali Yatra," Mahtab stated.

The high-level meeting, chaired by H&UD Minister Mahapatra, included various stakeholders and officials from different state government departments.

The project will encompass an amusement zone, dedicated parking, a food court, sports and picnic areas, a theme park, an open-air amphitheater, a sensory park, a sunset deck, a butterfly garden, and more, all designed with eco-friendliness in mind.

The Cuttack Development Authority (CDA) will oversee the project's execution.