Bhubaneswar, December 24: The Odisha government has approved the formation of a new economic region covering Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, and Paradip. The decision was made at a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The plan focuses on improving connectivity and infrastructure to position these cities as growth hubs.

Key components of the plan include the construction of three ring roads totaling 645 km. The Capital Ring Road will connect Paradeep to Puri, while an outer ring road will link Cuttack's key areas. A third ring road is planned for Khordha district.

Additionally, rail infrastructure will be upgraded with a 32-km railway line between Puri and Konark, and another 70 km connecting Konark to Bhubaneswar.

The initiative is expected to boost industrial and tourism growth in the region. CM Majhi has directed departments to revise policies for effective implementation, aiming to transform the region into a major economic hub.