Bhubaneswar, Jan 1: In a major move to revitalize the city’s recreational infrastructure, the Odisha government has announced a comprehensive redevelopment project for the BDA City Centre, widely known as ‘Nicco Park’ in Bhubaneswar.
The ambitious three-phase transformation will involve an investment of over Rs 600 crore and is set to begin in 2026, as revealed by the Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra on Thursday.
The redevelopment plan aims to breathe new life into the ageing facility, transforming it into a modern urban recreation hub that caters to people of all ages. The upgraded park will feature an array of modern amenities designed to enhance public leisure spaces across the city.
Key features of the redevelopment plan:
Modern Facilities: The new-look park will be equipped with cutting-edge facilities, including a dedicated food court, market complex, multiple entertainment zones, and boating facilities.
Three-Phase Approach: The redevelopment will be carried out in three phases. The first phase will focus on core infrastructure development, including site preparation and basic facilities. The second phase will see the addition of commercial and entertainment zones, followed by the final phase dedicated to recreational and activity-based amenities.
Continued Accessibility: Throughout the construction phases, portions of the park will remain open to the public to ensure continued access to recreational spaces.
Earlier, the state government had hinted at a Rs 250 crore plan for the redevelopment in September, but the latest announcement scales up the project significantly with a more ambitious plan to transform the park into a state-of-the-art facility.
In addition to the park’s redevelopment, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has also been working on modernizing the adjoining stormwater channel and lake zone, which includes landscaping, walkways, and restoration efforts, all of which have received state approval.
With this major upgrade, the BDA City Centre is poised to become one of Bhubaneswar's most sought-after recreational and leisure destinations, offering a blend of entertainment, dining, and outdoor activities.
