Bhubaneswar, July 3(OT Webdesk): In a strategic move to reshape urban landscapes, the Odisha government has launched the Odisha Urban Design Hub (OUDH)—a central planning body aimed at embedding design excellence and sustainable development across 11 key cities.
Under the Housing and Urban Development Department, OUDH is envisioned as the apex institution to drive integrated urban development.
It will merge sectors like infrastructure planning, municipal finance, community engagement, and data-driven governance into a unified vision for inclusive, livable cities.
The cities included in the first phase are Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Berhampur, Sambalpur, Balasore, Baripada, Jharsuguda-Sambalpur, Bhadrak, Koraput-Jeypore, Keonjhar, Phulbani, and Paradip.
For the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Khordha-Puri cluster, the plan emphasises “15-minute city” models along key transit corridors.
Additionally, seven flagship projects focused on enhancing public spaces will prioritise heritage, commerce, and community interaction.
This initiative is part of the larger Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Puri-Paradip Economic Region (BCPPER) blueprint, targeting a $500 billion economic cluster by 2047.
Ambitious upcoming projects like the Puri Aerotropolis, Cuttack Medi-city, and a smart city near Chandaka are aligned with this vision.
The Urban Design Hub will also serve as an implementation and advisory body for future interventions, ensuring global alignment with local responsiveness.
