Green makeover in city

Bhubaneswar: The city will witness a major green makeover with twin initiatives by Bhubaneswar Smart City Ltd (BSCL) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), aimed at improving urban ecology and roadside aesthetics.BSCL has launched a fresh beautification and landscaping project along Smart Janpath, one of the city’s busiest and most prominent arterial roads, with a focus on enhancing both environmental sustainability and its visual appeal. The initiative seeks to transform the corridor into a greener and cooler public space amid rising urban temperatures.Officials said the project adopts nature-based solutions to tackle urban heat effects, with large shade-giving trees being planted along the stretch.

“The project will significantly increase the city’s green cover. Apart from reducing heat, the trees and plants will improve air quality and support biodiversity,” BSCL’s managing director, Chanchal Rana, said.A key highlight will be the plantation of tabebuia rosea, known for its pink blossoms, which are expected to create a vibrant display. The medians will also feature rudrapalash trees, complementing the existing amaltas.

Shrubs like hamelia and acalypha and groundcover plants such as rhoeo will add to the visual richness of the avenue.As part of the redevelopment, 10 public plazas are being developed at strategic locations, including Ekamrakshetra, Master Canteen, Rajmahal flyover, and near IDCO Tower and OPTCL offices. These spaces are expected to host community activities such as Patha Utsav and more. The project is targeted for completion by Aug.In a parallel initiative, NHAI’s regional office in Odisha, along with its Bhubaneswar project implementation unit and a private firm, has launched a large-scale plantation drive along the NH-16 corridor between Baramunda and Chandikhol, a key corridor that runs right through the heart of the city.As part of the drive, around 10,000 saplings will be planted along the highway’s medians and avenues to boost green cover and promote environmental sustainability.

Officials said the effort is part of a broader push to integrate ecological considerations into highway development.“The plantation drive will help improve roadside aesthetics, enhance biodiversity and reduce the environmental impact of the national highways. It will contribute to long-term ecological sustainability. The initiative aligns with our vision of Green Highways for a Sustainable Future ,” Suraj Singh, project director, NHAI Bhubaneswar, said.Citizens and environmentalists have welcomed the twin initiatives, saying they would not only improve the city’s appearance but also provide much-needed respite from heat and pollution. “Janpath is always crowded and exposed to harsh sun. More trees and greenery will make a huge difference for pedestrians,” Saheed Nagar resident Jeet Mishra said.