Odisha's millennium city, Cuttack, is on the brink of a major transformation as Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has strongly indicated the city's long-awaited elevation to smart city status.
Cuttack – The historic city of Cuttack is set to undergo a significant transformation, with Chief Minister Mohan Majhi hinting at its upgrade to a smart city. During his visit to the city on Saturday, Majhi expressed his government’s commitment to addressing the long-standing demand of Cuttack's residents, further solidifying hopes of a new and prosperous Odisha.
While visiting several Durga Puja pandals in the millennium city, Majhi spoke to reporters, confirming that his administration is acutely aware of Cuttack’s demand to be officially designated as a smart city.
"The new government is dedicated to ushering in a fresh wave of development and progress across Odisha. Cuttack, with its rich cultural heritage and unique brotherhood, has always played a pivotal role in our state's growth," said Chief Minister Majhi. "Elevating Cuttack to smart city status has been a long-standing aspiration of the people, a demand echoed by former minister Samir Dey and many others. We are committed to making this vision a reality in the near future."
A Vision for Smart City Cuttack
The transformation of Cuttack into a smart city aligns with Odisha’s broader agenda for growth and modernization. For years, the city’s residents have expressed the need for improved infrastructure, enhanced digital services, and a more sustainable urban environment—elements that characterize a smart city.
Cuttack, known for its ancient roots and vibrant culture, has been a commercial and cultural hub of Odisha for centuries. However, the city now faces modern challenges in terms of traffic congestion, waste management, and technological advancement. The government’s focus on making Cuttack a smart city would introduce solutions like integrated digital systems for better governance, smart waste management, advanced transportation networks, and energy-efficient public services.
Cuttack's Legacy and Future Aspirations
Often referred to as the 'Millennium City' for its historic significance, Cuttack has long been a melting pot of tradition and modernity. Home to Barabati Fort and a thriving business community, it holds a unique place in Odisha's heart. The move to upgrade Cuttack as a smart city is seen as a necessary step toward preserving its heritage while bringing it into the 21st century.
Majhi further added, “The government is focused on sustainable urbanization, and Cuttack’s inclusion in the Smart City Mission will prioritize efficient public services, solid waste management, better mobility, and greater connectivity for its residents."
Next Steps: A Commitment to Action
The Chief Minister reassured the public that the government would soon take concrete steps towards fulfilling this promise. In a follow-up visit to Cuttack, Majhi plans to review the requirements and challenges for the city’s transition to smart city status. His upcoming visit is expected to include discussions with local officials, community leaders, and urban planners to chart a detailed roadmap.
Majhi’s statement has sparked excitement among Cuttack’s citizens, many of whom have long envisioned their city as a beacon of progress and innovation. A local resident expressed his enthusiasm: “We are proud of Cuttack’s heritage, but we also look forward to modern infrastructure and services that will improve our daily lives. The Chief Minister’s words bring us hope.”
A Smart Future for Cuttack
The government's push towards smart city status for Cuttack is a vital part of its broader mission to create a new, prosperous Odisha. This initiative promises to blend the city’s rich history with future-ready technologies and services.
For Cuttack, this transformation is more than just a title—it’s a step towards becoming a model city that showcases the best of Odisha’s heritage while embracing the innovations of tomorrow.