Odisha Clears Rs 240-Crore Mahanadi Riverfront Plan, Phased Over Three Years

The state outlines a two-phase push that pairs tourism facilities with river protection to support local economies.

Overview

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi approved the Mahanadi River Front Development project on September 11.
Work is scheduled across financial years 2025-26 to 2027-28 under a state-led scheme.
Phase one allocates Rs 160 crore for the Mandalia–Chaurapur stretch in Sambalpur, adding parks, open gyms, upgraded bathing and aarti ghats, theme plazas, shopping areas, toilets and other amenities.
Phase two budgets Rs 80 crore for the Kuakhai–Kushabhadra banks near Pandara in Bhubaneswar, proposing ring roads, floating jetties, lock gates, bridges, viewpoints, cafeterias, parking and walkways.
The Water Resources Department will spend Rs 240 crore from the state exchequer, with goals including erosion control, sewage diversion, drinking water conservation and selective cooperation with private players.