In a significant move to accelerate regional development, the Odisha government has decided to implement new policies and amend existing ones to fast-track the ambitious Bhubaneswar–Cuttack–Puri–Paradip Economic Region (BCPPER). This mega-project is a cornerstone of the state's long-term Odisha Vision 2036 and 2047.
High-Level Push for Coastal Economic Belt
Chairing a crucial review meeting on Wednesday, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi directed various state departments to create fresh policy frameworks and update current regulations. The aim is to provide robust support for the BCPPER plan, which is envisioned as a transformative, multi-city economic corridor for coastal Odisha.
Majhi specifically emphasized the need to prioritize standalone tourism development across the four-city economic belt. He also instructed officials to maintain consistent coordination with NITI Aayog, which is offering strategic and advisory support for shaping the project. The government's focus is on expediting implementation to build globally competitive urban-industrial clusters.
Vision of a $500-Billion Economic Powerhouse
The BCPPER is an extraordinarily ambitious project with far-reaching economic goals. According to a statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), it is projected to contribute approximately 33% of Odisha's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) by the year 2047. The vision is to evolve it into a massive $500-billion economic hub that seamlessly integrates industry, logistics, tourism, and urban development.
The region will be developed through an extensive network of three major ring roads spanning a total of 645 kilometers. Each city within the zone is designated as a future "growth hub." The proposed infrastructure includes:
- A 432-km Capital Ring Road connecting Paradip–Tangi–Saptasajya–Rameshwar–Puri, potentially integrated with the Centre's 111-km Capital Region Ring Road.
- An outer ring road of 148 km from Jatamundia–Trishulia–Urali in Cuttack to Balipatna–Pipili–Jatni–Khurda.
- A 65-km inner ring road linking Tamando–Chandaka–Pahal–Dhauli.
Enhanced Connectivity and Industrial Expansion
Beyond roads, the plan also envisions new railway lines to strengthen regional mobility and boost tourism. This includes a 32-km line from Puri to Konark and a 70-km Konark–Bhubaneswar line via Nimapada.
With BCPPER providing a direct link to the Paradip port, significant industrial expansion is anticipated. The CMO statement highlighted expected growth in multiple sectors, including:
- Agriculture and fisheries
- Manufacturing and port-based industries
- Chemicals and textiles
- Information Technology (IT) and logistics
Tourism is set to receive a major boost through the development of integrated coastal and cultural circuits, capitalizing on the region's rich heritage and natural beauty. The state government's latest push signals a concrete step towards turning this grand vision into a reality, aiming to reshape Odisha's economic landscape for decades to come.
