Bhubaneswar, 02 April (H.S.): The Housing & Urban Development Department has achieved its highest development expenditure in five years, reaching ₹8,575.61 crore as of March 31, 2026, according to an official press release. The figure marks a steady increase from ₹6,996.92 crore in 2022–23, reflecting the state’s continued focus on strengthening urban infrastructure and civic services.
The achievement has been attributed to coordinated efforts under the leadership of Housing & Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, whose emphasis on outcome-oriented governance and citizen-centric service delivery has guided the department’s approach. Administrative oversight by Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee has ensured close monitoring, timely execution, and effective implementation of development initiatives.
The department reported a significant improvement in financial efficiency, with an overall utilization rate rising to 86.50% from 73.47% in the previous fiscal year. Officials said this reflects a stronger focus on translating budget allocations into tangible outcomes.
Expenditure under State Sector Schemes emerged as a key contributor to the growth, increasing from ₹2,676.15 crore in 2022–23 to ₹4,285.45 crore in the current fiscal. The utilization rate under these schemes also improved to 98.18%, compared to 82.92% last year, indicating enhanced project execution and monitoring mechanisms.
In addition, the department maintained strong performance in fund transfers to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). Allocations under the State Finance Commission recorded near-total utilization of 99.70% for the fourth consecutive year, amounting to ₹1,489.51 crore.
Centrally Sponsored Schemes also witnessed a notable recovery, with expenditure rising to ₹1,144 crore from ₹595.95 crore in the previous year. The increase signals renewed momentum in leveraging central assistance for urban development.
Looking ahead, the department has set an ambitious Budget Estimate of ₹10,726.87 crore for 2026–27, the highest allocation in the past five years. Officials said the enhanced outlay reflects a clear intent to further expand urban infrastructure and improve service delivery across the state.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
