Odisha Government to Preserve Historic Assembly Building in Major Redevelopment Project
Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan made a significant announcement on Tuesday. He confirmed that the existing assembly building in Bhubaneswar will be preserved during the development of the new Lok Seva Bhawan-Vidhan Sabha complex.
Historic Structure Gets Protection
The minister provided clear assurances about the assembly building's future. This structure has stood for more than seven decades and will not face demolition. Harichandan explained the potential uses for the preserved building.
"If the state establishes a legislative council in the future, this space can serve that purpose," Harichandan stated. "Alternatively, it could function as a museum." He emphasized that the building will maintain its current architectural form.
Three-Phase Development Plan
The integrated complex carries a substantial budget of Rs 3,623 crore. Authorities will execute the project in three distinct phases. The new assembly building will occupy the vacant area between the current Vidhan Sabha and Lok Seva Bhawan.
This new structure will accommodate approximately 300 legislators. Design plans call for a two-storey building with basement and ground plus one floor configuration. The design includes underground parking facilities and allows for future expansion.
Major Transformation of Lok Seva Bhawan
Most existing structures within the current Lok Seva Bhawan will undergo demolition. These will make way for modern vertical facilities. The first phase will focus on constructing the main Lok Seva Bhawan building.
Construction will begin at the site currently housing the collector's camp office. This location features a large vacant patch suitable for development. Subsequent phases will involve demolishing unsafe blocks.
The demolition list includes several important buildings:
- Rajiv Bhawan, which houses the special relief commissioner and Odisha State Disaster Management Authority
- The heads of department building known as Natala
- Secha Sadan, accommodating engineers from the water resources department
Vertical structures will replace all these demolished buildings.
Comprehensive Development Vision
The integrated complex will spread across 71.13 acres of land. Additional office blocks are planned near Power House Square and the OSEPA campus. Harichandan explained the project's broader vision.
"This project aims to consolidate administrative and legislative functions under one roof," the minister said. "We are following the model of Delhi's Central Vista redevelopment."
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi previously announced an ambitious timeline. He stated that the first phase should complete within two years. This development marks a significant step toward creating a future-ready governance hub for Odisha.
The preservation decision reflects respect for the state's political heritage while pursuing modern administrative infrastructure. The project balances historical conservation with contemporary governance needs.
