Cuttack : Chief minister Mohan Majhi on Friday announced an additional allocation of ₹150 crore for the ambitious Mahanadi Riverfront Development project, taking the total investment to ₹200 crore, while inaugurating the historic Bali Yatra fair here Friday. Majhi outlined his vision to transform Cuttack's riverbanks into a modern recreational and tourist destination, drawing inspiration from Ahmedabad's successful Sabarmati riverfront model. "While we embrace modernization, the project will preserve Cuttack's rich cultural heritage," said Majhi, who also revealed plans to develop Cuttack into a smart city, addressing long-standing demands from residents and legislative assembly members.
The CM, who announced an upcoming visit to Singapore, drew parallels between the ancient Kalinga maritime traders (sadhabas) and his mission to establish new international trade connections. "Like our ancestors who sailed across oceans for trade, we aim to attract global investments to Odisha," he said. Accompanied by deputy CM Pravati Parida, parliamentarians, MLAs and diplomats from 14 countries, Majhi participated in the traditional boat ride from Silver City boat club's Naval jetty to Baishnab Pani Mancha, commemorating the ancient maritime trade routes of Sadhabas to Southeast Asian countries.
"This year's fair features 2,500 stalls, including 500 by ORMAS, showcasing various handicrafts and household goods," Cuttack collector Dattatraya Shinde said. The administration expects footfa.