The State Housing and Urban Development Department in Odisha has taken steps to streamline the expansion of clean energy infrastructure in urban areas. A recent order issued by Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary of the department, aims to simplify and speed up approval processes for City Gas Distribution projects. Urban Local Bodies have been instructed to waive permission fees for laying underground pipelines and related infrastructure to promote a gas-based economy.
To ensure smooth project execution, ongoing or sanctioned works will not require fresh permissions, eliminating procedural delays. The state government has emphasized time-bound approvals and instructed authorities to promptly process applications. Additionally, restrictions on road-cutting for City Gas Distribution projects have been relaxed to maintain project continuity and prevent disruptions.
The order also emphasizes accountability, requiring CGD entities to bear the cost of restoring roads and infrastructure as per set standards. The Director of Municipal Administration has been appointed as the central authority to coordinate and monitor CGD-related works statewide. Various departments have been urged to cooperate fully to ensure effective implementation on the ground.
These measures will be effective until June 30, 2026, or until further notice. The initiative is expected to expedite the distribution of PNG connections, encourage the use of cleaner fuel, and bolster urban infrastructure, supporting Odisha’s shift towards a sustainable and energy-efficient future.
