Bhubaneswar, October 13:The Odisha Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, on Tuesday approved Rs 133.72 crore (excluding GST) for the integrated development of the Mahanadi riverfront in Cuttack.

The project aims to transform the riverfront into a vibrant public space with improved environmental conditions, recreational facilities and tourism infrastructure while preserving its cultural identity.

Major components include riverfront promenades, landscaped gardens, Cuttack Haat, an anchor pavilion, an open-air theatre, rejuvenation of waterbodies, pedestrian pathways, parking facilities and other public amenities. The project will also feature lighting, surveillance systems and infrastructure to improve accessibility, safety and mobility.

The development will be carried out in accordance with applicable statutory and environmental requirements, including the directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

The construction work is expected to begin in November 2026 and be completed by November 2028. The selected agency will subsequently be responsible for the project's operation and maintenance for five years.