Did Puri Just Become a Municipal Corporation?
Synopsis
Bhubaneswar, Dec 31 (NationPress) The Odisha government has officially upgraded Puri Municipality to Puri Municipal Corporation status, marking a significant milestone for the coastal city. This change aims to enhance civic amenities and infrastructure, benefiting residents and the influx of devotees and tourists drawn to the famous Jagannath Temple.
Key Takeaways
Puri Municipality has been officially upgraded to Puri Municipal Corporation .
The change aims to enhance civic amenities and infrastructure.
The announcement was made by the Odisha government on December 31.
Approximately 7-8 nearby Gram Panchayats will be integrated.
Other towns in Odisha were also designated as Notified Area Councils .
Bhubaneswar, Dec 31 (NationPress) The government of Odisha has officially elevated the status of Puri Municipality to that of Puri Municipal Corporation, effective from Wednesday.
The Housing & Urban Development Department has issued a formal notification regarding this change, as confirmed by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) on Wednesday.
The coastal city of Puri, home to the globally acclaimed Jagannath Temple, is regarded as one of India's top pilgrimage spots, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists daily from across the nation and beyond.
To guarantee enhanced civic facilities and improved infrastructure for its residents, visitors, and devotees, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi had put forth the proposal to upgrade Puri's status to Municipal Corporation on July 3.
The aspiration for this upgrade had been a longstanding request from the local populace. The announcement of Puri's elevation to Municipal Corporation has ignited widespread joy and celebrations among the citizens of Puri and its neighboring areas.
According to the CMO, this new corporation status will facilitate extensive infrastructural development, superior civic services, and the transformation of Puri into a more expansive metropolitan area.
The envisioned Puri Municipal Corporation will be formed by incorporating the city along with adjacent Gram Panchayats. The state government had previously indicated that approximately 7-8 Gram Panchayats from the Puri Sadar and Brahmagiri blocks would be included in the municipal corporation.
In addition to Puri, four other towns statewide have been designated as Notified Area Councils (NACs). These towns are Loisingha in Balangir district, Chandikhole in Jajpur district, Jashipur in Mayurbhanj district, and Basta in Balasore district.
Furthermore, the jurisdiction of the Berhampur Municipal Corporation has been expanded, as outlined in the recent notification. This expansion was previously announced by the Chief Minister during the Swayat Shasan Divas (Self-Governance Day) festivities on August 31.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the long-awaited upgrade of Puri to Municipal Corporation status as a pivotal step towards improving civic infrastructure and services. This development not only honors the aspirations of local residents but also aligns with the state's commitment to fostering growth in one of India's most cherished pilgrimage destinations. The elevation will facilitate necessary advancements, ensuring that Puri remains a welcoming haven for devotees and tourists alike.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Puri's upgrade to Municipal Corporation?
The upgrade will enhance civic services, infrastructure, and overall urban management, benefiting both residents and visitors.
When did the Odisha government announce the upgrade?
The announcement was made on December 31, with the change effective immediately.
How many Gram Panchayats will be included in the new Municipal Corporation?
Approximately 7-8 Gram Panchayats from Puri Sadar and Brahmagiri blocks will be included.
