What happened to the ‘Greater Berhampur’ plan?

Berhampur, one of Odisha’s most historic cities, is at the centre of a strategic plan that aims to merge it with its neighbouring areas Gopalpur and Chhatrapur, in a vision for a ‘Greater Berhampur’. Yet, despite ongoing discussions, little has been materialised, leaving residents increasingly discontent.

Meanwhile, local representatives have asserted that the proposal has indeed been advanced to relevant ministers, raising expectations for visible progress soon.

Berhampur faces significant hurdles in terms of infrastructure and population growth. The city’s development has not kept pace with needs, despite a comprehensive plan being drafted in 2015 to steer growth. 

Residents and local leaders alike feel that forming Greater Berhampur is crucial. Such a move promises not only enhanced infrastructure but also fortifies the potential for boosting tourism facilities.

“Berhampur, Gopalpur and Chhatrapur are neighbouring areas and they belong to one district. There is a vision to merge the areas to make ‘Greater Berhampur’. Though residents have been demanding it, no action has been taken by the government in this regard yet,” rued Bhokali Sethi, a resident of Berhampur.

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“The State government can get significant grants from the Centre by approving the plan. By forming Greater Berhampur, the district will get a huge grant from the Centre and there will be a huge amount of economic and tourism developments in the district,” said former Berhampur Development Authority (BeDA) Chairman Subas Moharana.

Support for the proposal comes from influential figures like former deputy speaker Rama Chandra Panda, who echoes the sentiment that Greater Berhampur could bring considerable benefits to the region. 

“People have been demanding the formation of Greater Berhampur and the government has an active response in this regard. Action in this direction will be taken soon,” said Panda.

Meanwhile, Berhampur MP Pradeep Panigrahi remains optimistic, indicating that recent proposals have been presented to the Housing and Urban Development Minister, reigniting hope amongst citizens that substantive action could be forthcoming.

“It has been approved in the last BeDA meeting to form greater Berhampur. Housing and Urban Development Minister has asked the Collector to submit the blueprint within a stipulated period of time. After receiving the report, the next course of action will be taken,” said Panigrahi.

Although frustrations brew over the lack of progress, the vision of a unified Greater Berhampur remains a topic of considerable interest for both urban planners and residents. As anticipation builds, residents are expecting government actions soon to transform the long-standing plan into reality.