Bhubaneswar expansion: BDA plans ‘Telangana-model’ community market, residential complex

In a bid to transform one of its rapidly urbanising localities, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has announced an ambitious project to develop a modern community market and residential complex in Ghatikia, in the city’s outskirts.

According to The Times of India, located near a rapidly growing Khandagiri-Khordha stretch, the move aims to offer better amenities and commercial opportunities in newly emerging neighbourhoods of the state capital.

Bhubaneswar expansion: Project Overview

The reports stated that the proposed facility will be developed over 2.79 acres and include a three-storey, air-conditioned community market comprising around 220 shops.

Each shop will have a minimum internal area of 150 square metres. The design also includes essential features such as wide circulation passages, dedicated staircases, storage units, and toilets.

Further, separate zones for vegetarian and non-vegetarian goods will be created to cater to diverse customer needs.

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Design Inspiration and Facilities

Notably, the upcoming complex is slated to be modelled after the successful Gajwel market in Telangana.

The plan outlines dedicated parking spaces accounting for 60% of the built-up area, with the primary parking facility located in the first basement. Importantly, separate access points will be provided for the market and the residential complex, ensuring smooth movement and avoiding overlap between the two.

The market's architectural design emphasises natural lighting through high ceilings and planned ventilation. BDA has reportedly floated tenders under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, with finalisation expected by the end of April.

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Ghatikia's Growth and Community Impact

Once a peripheral region, Ghatikia is now seeing a real estate boom driven by institutional and residential expansion. The project is also part of a broader vision by the BDA to expand and modernise Bhubaneswar's infrastructure.

It is worth noting that the Odisha government recently shared that it was discussing about the feasibility and necessity to expand Bhubaneswar beyond its current limits to expand a growing population and decongest the main city.