With Odisha and Chhattisgarh still at loggerheads over sharing Mahanadi water, the Odisha government has approved the outcome of the bidding process for the Integrated Development of Mahanadi Waterfront at Kataka (Cuttack).

The move paves the way for a major riverfront transformation project estimated at Rs 133.72 crore amid the ongoing water-sharing dispute. Chief Minister Mohan Majhi had recently announced that the dispute with Chhattisgarh would be resolved. The waterfront project also highlights the Odisha government’s proactive approach to transforming the Mahanadi riverfront.

The government aims to develop the riverfront into a vibrant public destination combining recreation, cultural attractions, environmental enhancement and tourism infrastructure. Construction is expected to begin in November 2026 and be completed by November 2028. The project will be executed under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) model, with a stipulated construction period of 24 months, followed by five years of comprehensive operation and maintenance.

The project aims to improve the accessibility, appearance and recreational value of the Mahanadi riverfront. The government envisages an attractive and ecologically balanced public space offering residents and visitors better opportunities for leisure, cultural engagement and outdoor activities.

Also Read: From community circles to citywide celebrations, Dandiya finds home in Odisha

The development will focus on enhancing public spaces and strengthening Cuttack’s cultural and tourism identity. Environmental sensitivity, universal accessibility, public safety and long-term resilience are among its key priorities.

‘KatakaHaat,’ an open-air theatre among key attractions

The project will feature riverfront promenades, landscaping and environmental enhancement works, ‘KatakaHaat,’ an anchor pavilion and an open-air theatre. It will also include the development and rejuvenation of waterbodies to enhance the waterfront’s recreational and environmental value.

The plan also provides for public amenities, pathways, parking facilities, utility infrastructure and other supporting works. Pedestrian-friendly and non-motorised mobility networks will be incorporated to improve movement within the area and make the riverfront more accessible.

Rs 133.72-crore project with five-year maintenance

The quoted project cost is Rs 133,71,97,015, excluding GST. The selected agency will undertake construction and subsequently provide comprehensive operation and maintenance services for five years, in accordance with the tender conditions.

Regular maintenance of promenades, landscaped gardens, lighting, surveillance systems, pathways and other public amenities will be crucial to preserving the quality and usability of the facilities beyond the construction phase.

Environmental safeguards to remain priority

The project document states that all works will comply with applicable statutory provisions, environmental requirements and directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT). Environmental enhancement and waterbody rejuvenation will accompany the creation of public infrastructure.

Balancing urban development with ecological considerations will be essential given the riverfront& environmental significance. Compliance with statutory requirements and effective implementation of environmental safeguards will therefore be critical.

Tourism and public recreation in focus

The integrated development is expected to expand Cuttack’s recreational and cultural infrastructure by creating dedicated spaces for walking, leisure activities, performances and public gatherings. ‘KatakaHaat’ and the open-air theatre could enhance the visitor experience, while improved landscaping and pedestrian infrastructure may encourage greater public use of the waterfront.

The initiative reflects the government’s broader objective of improving urban public spaces and strengthening the tourism potential of the Mahanadi riverfront. Its long-term impact will depend on timely execution, infrastructure quality and effective maintenance.

With construction scheduled to begin in November 2026, the project is expected to enter its implementation phase in the coming weeks.