Dholera Smart City has emerged as India’s model of futuristic urban development, and now Odisha is ready to follow similar footsteps. The state government has announced an ambitious plan to build a modern “New City” near Bhubaneswar, designed with world-class infrastructure, sustainable planning, and advanced facilities. This project is being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) as the nodal agency.
The initiative is expected to reshape the urban landscape of Odisha and create opportunities similar to what Dholera Smart City in Gujarat has already showcased. With a projected population of around one lakh residents, the New City will not only address future urban needs but also create large-scale employment, investment, and real estate opportunities.
A Vision Inspired by Dholera Smart City
The concept of the new urban hub is largely inspired by Dholera Smart City in Gujarat, which is India’s first and largest greenfield smart city. Just like Dholera, the Bhubaneswar project is being designed with a sustainable master plan, advanced connectivity, and dedicated zones for commercial, residential, and industrial development.
The Odisha government has partnered with Surbana Jurong Pvt Ltd, a Singapore-based urban consultancy firm, to prepare the master plan. Additionally, JLL India, an international real estate consultancy, is analyzing the market feasibility to ensure the project attracts investors and residents.
This collaboration reflects the same global-standard approach that was used in Dholera, where international experts played a key role in planning.
Project Location and Area
The new city will be spread across 789 acres in Gothapatna, Malipada, and Dashpur villages near Tamando, just outside Bhubaneswar. Initially, over 800 acres were considered, but the area was slightly reduced due to forest land restrictions.
Its strategic location makes it highly promising:
- 12 km from Biju Patnaik International Airport
- 14 km from Bhubaneswar Railway Station
- 8 km from Baramunda Bus Terminal
- 7 km from NH-16
This proximity to major transport hubs ensures smooth connectivity for businesses, industries, and residents — a key factor that has also driven interest in Dholera Smart City.
Key Features and Amenities of the New City
The Bhubaneswar “New City” is designed to provide modern urban facilities on par with international standards. According to preliminary plans, the city will include:
- 65 lakh sq. ft. of commercial accommodation for offices, malls, and retail hubs.
- 24 lakh sq. ft. for IT and allied sectors, creating a tech-friendly ecosystem.
- Administrative complexes for smooth governance.
- Educational institutions ranging from schools to universities.
- Health care facilities with modern hospitals and research centers.
- Industrial units to boost manufacturing and local production.
- Sports facilities, libraries, and cultural centers for recreation.
- 45% green belt, ensuring sustainable and eco-friendly development.
- Regional transport services to link the city internally and externally.
Much like Dholera Smart City, Bhubaneswar’s new project focuses on balanced development, where both economy and environment go hand in hand.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The New City is expected to generate over one lakh jobs across multiple sectors, including IT, real estate, manufacturing, administration, and services. With a mix of commercial, industrial, and residential development, the project will attract both national and international companies.
Odisha has already sanctioned ₹200 crore for initial works like road construction and boundary development, setting the groundwork for large-scale investments in the coming years.
The job potential mirrors the success story of Dholera Smart City, which has become a hotspot for industries like defense, aviation, solar energy, and logistics.
Funding Model
The funding pattern for the Bhubaneswar New City project is structured for long-term sustainability. The model includes:
- 25% contribution from the Central Government
- 25% contribution from the Odisha State Government
- 50% funding through loans and private investments
This PPP structure is similar to the financial planning of Dholera Smart City, where government support helped attract private investors and global companies.
Role of Global Expertise
The Odisha government has chosen Surbana Jurong, a Singapore-based company, for urban planning. Known for its global expertise in sustainable city development, the company’s involvement highlights Odisha’s vision to replicate the success of global smart cities.
Additionally, JLL India is studying real estate and market demand to ensure the project is financially viable and attractive to investors. This approach is critical because projects like Dholera Smart City gained momentum after international consultancies endorsed their feasibility.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the New City promises a bright future, certain challenges exist:
- Land acquisition and forest clearance issues slightly reduced the planned project size.
- Ensuring sustainable growth without harming local ecosystems.
- Attracting early investors during the development phase.
However, the opportunities far outweigh the challenges. With strategic location, government backing, and global expertise, Bhubaneswar’s New City can become a landmark urban hub in Eastern India, just as Dholera Smart City became a milestone for Western India.
National Importance: Part of India’s Smart City Push
The Central Government has already approved Bhubaneswar as one of the eight cities selected nationwide for new city development. This move places Odisha among the front-runners in India’s mission to create futuristic cities.
The success of Dholera Smart City has shown how a planned approach can create opportunities for business, housing, and employment. By adopting similar strategies, Odisha is ensuring its citizens benefit from world-class infrastructure and a modern lifestyle.
Also read: German Gas Company Linde in Dholera Gujarat: Boosting India’s Semiconductor Ecosystem
Future Outlook
Experts believe that within the next 10–15 years, the New City near Bhubaneswar will become a thriving hub for business, IT, and modern living. With over 789 acres of development, advanced planning, and sustainable practices, it will stand as a model for other states to follow.
The combination of eco-friendly design, international expertise, and government support will ensure long-term growth. If executed properly, this city could replicate or even surpass the achievements of Dholera Smart City in Gujarat.
Also read: Japanese Delegation Meets Gujarat CM; Boost for Semiconductor Growth in Dholera SIR
Conclusion
The upcoming “New City” near Bhubaneswar is more than just an infrastructure project — it is a vision for future urban India. Inspired by the success of Dholera Smart City, this project brings together sustainability, technology, and global planning expertise.
From creating over one lakh jobs to offering modern housing, IT hubs, industrial zones, and green spaces, the city promises to redefine Odisha’s urban development story.
As India continues to embrace smart city initiatives, Bhubaneswar’s New City will stand as a shining example of progress, much like Dholera Smart City has become for Gujarat.
