Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cabinet has approved a major redevelopment project for Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), aiming to upgrade the historic institution into a modern centre of technical education and research.

Located in Burla of Sambalpur district, VSSUT, formerly known as University College of Engineering, is the oldest engineering institution in the state. The redevelopment initiative is part of the government’s broader vision to strengthen higher technical education under its “Viksit Odisha” framework.

The Cabinet cleared the proposal submitted by the Skill Development and Technical Education Department for execution of the turnkey project titled “Redevelopment of Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla, Sambalpur (Phase-I, Package-I)”.

The project is designed under a comprehensive master plan aligned with national standards. It aims to cater to the academic, research and residential needs of nearly 10,000 students in the coming years. Key components include construction of new academic blocks, laboratories, hostels, utility infrastructure, student amenities and associated site development.

Officials said the project will be executed in turnkey mode, covering detailed design, engineering, construction and one year of operation and maintenance.

With a total approved outlay of ₹929.96 crore, excluding GST and other charges, the redevelopment is expected to significantly enhance infrastructure, academic delivery and campus facilities. The initiative also seeks to position VSSUT as a premier technical institution of national standing, contributing to the state’s long-term goal of developing skilled manpower.

M/s NCC Limited has been selected as the lowest bidder for executing the project.