The state government has allocated Rs 9,603 crore in the 2024-25 budget for the transformation of urban infrastructure in Odisha. This includes Rs 1,000 crore for the Bhubaneswar Metro project, which Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasises as a key part of his urban revitalisation efforts. This rapid rail system is expected to play a significant role in modernising the city’s infrastructure.

The Indian government has unveiled ambitious plans to connect Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar with Trisulia square in Cuttack by 2027. The project’s first phase, costing Rs 6,256 crore, is part of a broader initiative involving Rs 918 crore for a new city development project and Rs 606 crore for the Unnati scheme. The latter aims to develop smart cities and promote digital infrastructure, leading to improved urban management and citizen services.

The state government has earmarked significant funds for urban development, with Rs 357 crore allocated for water supply under the Basudha scheme. Urban sanitation and sewerage systems have been allocated Rs 380 crore and Rs 214 crore respectively. Additionally, Rs 200 crore has been set aside for urban road transport and the expansion of CRUT services. The largest allocation, Rs 606 crore, is aimed at improving urban governance.

On July 25, 2024, the state government announced an allocation of Rs 800 crore to boost tourism. This includes a proposed investment of Rs 445 crore for the development and management of both existing and new tourist infrastructure. Additionally, the government intends to spend Rs 279 crore on promoting the state’s tourism products, marking a significant increase from last year’s publicity budget of Rs 157 crore. The move aims to strengthen the state’s tourism sector, positioning it as a major contributor to the local economy.

The Chief Minister has proposed a Rs 50 crore budget allocation for the Mahanadi Riverfront Development scheme. This initiative aims to transform areas along the Mahanadi river in Sambalpur and Cuttack into riverfront projects, following the model of the Sabarmati riverfront project in Gujarat.