Bhubaneswar: During a review meeting here Odisha’s Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra has announced the state will soon launch the “A Roof for All” initiative aimed at expanding urban housing access.

The initiative targets providing housing coverage to 80% of the urban population by 2036. It will adopt a three-tier approach, catering to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Low Income Groups (LIG), and a dedicated rental housing model for migrant and floating populations.

The programme will be launched initially in Rourkela, with plans for phased expansion to other cities across the state. District Collectors have been directed to identify and allocate suitable land on priority to ensure timely execution of projects.

Emphasising planned and scientific urban growth, the Minister also reviewed the Town Planning Scheme based on a land pooling model. Under this system, 40% of the land will be used for public infrastructure such as roads, drainage, and civic amenities, while 60% will be returned to the original landowners after development.

Mahapatra also assessed progress under the Chief Minister’s Smart City Scheme, which has identified 49 cities for development in the first phase. He directed officials to prioritise modern road networks, improved water supply, efficient sewerage and drainage systems, and enhanced urban aesthetics.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to universal household drinking water supply under AMRUT, the Minister stressed timely project completion with the support of technology-driven monitoring.

During the meeting, officials revealed a comprehensive Drainage Master Plan is being implemented to address waterlogging and improve stormwater management in major urban areas. Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) have been prepared, and funds allocated for priority works.

The Minister announced the Gangua Nala and Daya West Canal will be taken up for early rejuvenation in coordination with the Housing and Urban Development Department and the Water Resources Department.

Highlighting urban flood management as a key priority, he said the initiatives align with the vision of building resilient and sustainable urban infrastructure and assured that visible improvements will be achieved within a fixed timeline.

The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee, Director of Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua, and other key department heads.