Odisha Approves INR 133.72-Crore Mahanadi Riverfront Project in Cuttack, Work to Begin in November

Cuttack, Oct 16: Cuttack is set for a major riverfront transformation, with the Odisha government approving the outcome of the bidding process for the ₹133.72-crore Integrated Development of the Mahanadi Waterfront.

 Representational Image 

The project aims to turn the Mahanadi riverfront into an attractive public destination featuring recreational spaces, cultural facilities, improved infrastructure and environmental enhancements. Construction is expected to begin in November 2026, with completion targeted for November 2028.

The initiative is expected to strengthen Cuttack’s urban landscape and create new opportunities for public recreation and tourism.

KatakaHaat, Open-Air Theatre to Be Major Attractions

A key highlight of the project will be ‘KatakaHaat’, alongside an open-air theatre and an anchor pavilion. These facilities are planned to provide spaces for cultural programmes, community gatherings and visitor activities.

The development will also feature landscaped riverfront promenades, pedestrian pathways, parking facilities and other public amenities. Improved pedestrian access and non-motorised mobility networks are intended to make the waterfront easier to navigate.

The proposed facilities are expected to give residents and visitors more opportunities to enjoy the riverside while supporting Cuttack’s cultural identity.

Two-Year Construction, Five-Year Maintenance

The project will be executed under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) model, with a stipulated construction period of 24 months.

The quoted project cost is ₹133,71,97,015, excluding GST. Following construction, the selected agency will be responsible for comprehensive operation and maintenance for five years, in accordance with the tender conditions.

Maintaining the promenades, landscaped areas, lighting, surveillance systems, pathways and other facilities will be important to ensuring that the riverfront remains safe, clean and accessible over the long term.

Environmental Protection Among Key Priorities

Along with new infrastructure, the project includes landscaping, environmental enhancement and the development and rejuvenation of waterbodies.

According to the project document, the work must comply with applicable statutory provisions, environmental requirements and directions issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

Balancing urban development with the ecological importance of the Mahanadi will be crucial. Effective implementation of environmental safeguards will therefore remain an important part of the project.

Boost to Cuttack’s Tourism and Public Spaces

The riverfront development is expected to expand Cuttack’s recreational infrastructure and create additional venues for leisure, cultural performances and public gatherings.

The project comes amid the continuing water-sharing dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh over the Mahanadi. While the dispute remains a separate issue, the waterfront initiative represents a major planned investment in the development of Cuttack’s riverfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in November, attention will now turn to the project's implementation, completion within the stipulated timeline and the quality of facilities delivered to the public.