Rourkela embarks on major infrastructure development with 3 new projects

Three new projects have been approved by Rourkela Smart City Limited (RSCL), demonstrating a commitment to robust infrastructure development in the region. The initiatives include constructing a storm water drain, refurbishing the existing bus terminal, and transforming the TISCO site.

Development Meeting in Bhubaneswar

The 29th Board of Directors meeting, chaired in Bhubaneswar, featured prominent figures such as Housing and Urban Development Secretary Usha Padhee and Development Commissioner Anu Garg. During the session, the board assessed ongoing projects under the Rourkela Smart City scheme.

Rourkela One Initiative Progress

An update was provided on the Rourkela One initiative, with its integrated command and control centre (ICC) and tribal museum scheduled for completion by June. Both projects have faced significant delays, being two years behind the projected timeline.

Ongoing and New Developments

A recreational park at Koel Nagar is currently underway, with authorities urging an acceleration of its completion to avoid additional delays. Plans to enhance Vedavyas Peetha, a site of cultural significance, were also discussed. 

A new stormwater drainage system for the flood-prone areas of Dayanand Nagar, PK Das Colony, Burutola, and Jagannath Colony has won approval to alleviate monsoon flooding issues.

Bus Terminal and TISCO Site Transformation

Sources said, in view of the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup in January 2023, construction of a new and spacious bus terminal was mooted at another location. However, the RSCL neither approved the proposal nor took measures to develop the existing bus stand.

Innovative plans include converting an outdated quarry pit in the TISCO Colony into TISCO Pond, envisaged as a recreational hub complete with a forest trail, footbridge, and food court, catering to tourism interests.

Support for Street Vendors

Efforts to streamline traffic by creating a dedicated market for around 400 street vendors, especially vegetable sellers, were approved to enhance conditions around Chhend Colony and Kalinga Vihar on busy Fridays.

RSCL CEO Ashutosh Kulkarni was present at the discussions, reflecting the commitment to these urban transformations.