In a decisive move to accelerate a transformative economic project, the Odisha government has announced a major policy push for the Bhubaneswar–Cuttack–Puri–Paradip Economic Region (BCPPER). This mega corridor is a cornerstone of the state's long-term Odisha Vision 2036 and 2047.
Policy Revamp for a Mega Corridor
Chairing a high-level review meeting on Wednesday, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi directed various state departments to introduce fresh policy frameworks and amend existing regulations. The goal is to fast-track the implementation of the ambitious BCPPER plan. The Chief Minister also emphasized the need to prioritize standalone tourism development across the four-city economic belt.
Officials have been instructed to maintain regular coordination with NITI Aayog, which is providing strategic and advisory support. The aim is to shape BCPPER into a transformative, multi-city economic corridor for coastal Odisha, expediting its development amidst a growing focus on building globally competitive urban-industrial clusters.
The Vision: A $500-Billion Economic Powerhouse
The scale of the BCPPER project is monumental. It is projected to contribute around 33% of Odisha’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) by 2047, evolving into a $500-billion economic hub. This hub will seamlessly integrate industry, logistics, tourism, and urban development.
According to a statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the region will be developed through an extensive network of three major ring roads spanning a total of 645 kilometres. Each city within the zone is designated as a future “growth hub.” The proposed road network 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.
The plan also envisions significant enhancements in railway connectivity, with a new 32-km line from Puri to Konark and a 70-km Konark–Bhubaneswar line via Nimapada. This is expected to dramatically strengthen regional mobility and boost tourism.
Industrial and Tourism Expansion on the Horizon
With BCPPER providing a direct link to the port city of Paradip, significant industrial expansion is anticipated. Key sectors poised for growth include:
- Agriculture and fisheries
- Manufacturing and port-based industries
- Chemicals and textiles
- Information Technology (IT) and logistics
Tourism is also slated for a major boost through the development of integrated coastal and cultural circuits, leveraging the region's rich heritage and scenic coastline. The state government's concerted push signals a new phase of strategic infrastructure and economic planning, aiming to position coastal Odisha as a dominant economic force in the coming decades.
