Bhubaneswar/ Mumbai, August 8: Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister for Housing & Urban Development and Public Enterprises has visited CIDCO’s affordable housing projects under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Urban (PMAY-U) at Kharkopar and Bamandongri in Navi Mumbai to study modern construction technologies and innovative models for large-scale affordable housing on Friday.

The exposure visit focused on CIDCO’s experience in developing housing for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Low-Income Groups (LIG), with emphasis on fast-track construction, quality assurance, integrated township planning, sustainability and connectivity.

During the visit, CIDCO officials briefed the Minister on the planning, design, financing and execution of the projects. The delegation observed the extensive use of precast concrete technology, factory-manufactured structural components, mechanised construction and high-precision aluminium formwork systems. These technologies facilitate faster construction, improve quality and safety, reduce material wastage and optimise construction resources, making them relevant for large-scale affordable housing programmes.

Dr. Mahapatra also discussed the sustainability features incorporated in the housing developments, including stormwater drainage, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, landscaped open spaces and scientific solid-waste management. The integrated townships provide essential community infrastructure and amenities aimed at creating safe, functional and liveable neighbourhoods.

A key focus of the visit was CIDCO’s Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) approach. The Minister was briefed on the integration of affordable housing with metro corridors, suburban railway stations, bus services and major road networks. Such planning improves access to employment and essential services, reduces travel time and transportation costs, and promotes sustainable urban mobility.

Appreciating CIDCO’s systematic approach to project planning, execution and quality assurance, Dr. Mahapatra said the experience provides valuable lessons for Odisha as the State expands affordable housing under PMAY-U and other urban development initiatives.

He said providing safe, dignified and affordable housing to eligible urban families remains a key priority of the Government of Odisha under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi. He emphasised that adoption of modern construction technologies, along with integrated planning, can accelerate housing delivery while ensuring quality, affordability and improved urban liveability.

Dr. Mahapatra further stated that the Housing & Urban Development Department would examine the feasibility of adopting precast and modular construction systems, aluminium formwork and other advanced engineering practices in suitable housing projects in Odisha. He also stressed the importance of structured knowledge exchange and technical collaboration between CIDCO and relevant Odisha agencies in construction technology, project management and integrated township development.

The visit was attended by Vijay Patil, Superintending Engineer, CIDCO; Karade, CIDCO; Mahesh Sapkale, Assistant Executive Engineer, CIDCO; Sunil Kumar Samantaray, Project Director, Tata Consulting Engineers (PMC); other PMC representatives; and Karunanithi, Project Manager, Larsen & Toubro, along with other technical officials.

The learnings from the exposure visit will be examined for suitable adaptation in Odisha’s future affordable housing projects, reinforcing the State’s commitment to faster, technology-driven, sustainable and citizen-centric urban housing development.