Rourkela Accelerates Smart City Growth with EV Mobility, Housing, and Heritage Projects

Rourkela witnessed a major push in its urban development agenda as Development Commissioner‑cum‑Additional Chief Secretary Smt. Anu Garg conducted a two‑day review of key projects across the city.

Joined by senior officials, including Housing & Urban Development Principal Secretary Smt. Usha Padhee and Sundargarh Collector Dr Subhankar Mohapatra, Garg emphasised sustainable mobility, housing for the economically weaker sections, and cultural preservation.

The inspection began at the EV bus depot under the PM‑eBus Sewa Scheme, where operational performance and service quality were assessed to strengthen green public transport.

Garg also visited the bio‑mining site at Chhend, directing swift completion and reclamation, and the biomass pellet plant at Balughat, focusing on production and sales.

Sports infrastructure received attention at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, with proposals for a hockey gallery and mascot statue, while athletes at the Birsa Munda Athletic Stadium were encouraged to aim for excellence.

The under‑construction Big Recreational Park in Koel Nagar was praised as a future tourism landmark.

Affordable housing was highlighted at the Sulabh Basagruha project, where facilities such as healthcare, anganwadi centres, and community halls were lauded.

Over 1,500 new homes are set to provide secure living for the weaker sections. Garg also interacted with women managing the Mission Shakti Café, appreciating their role in community empowerment.

Heritage and tourism projects included plans to restore TISCO Pond as a picnic spot, beautification at the Vedvyas Temple, and the upcoming Tribal Museum at Rourkela One, showcasing tribal huts, art galleries, and terracotta displays.

In a review meeting, Garg stressed the timely completion and maintenance of smart city projects, alongside revenue generation.

Usha Padhee announced the imminent expansion of Rourkela Airport, with discussions underway for new Indigo connections.

These initiatives collectively aim to transform Rourkela into a model of sustainable urban growth, blending modern infrastructure with cultural heritage.