BDA Floats Live Tender for Topographic and LiDAR Survey of Bhubaneswar New City Master Plan Area

What Is Happening

The Bhubaneswar Development Authority has issued a live tender for selection of an agency to conduct topographic and LiDAR survey for the Bhubaneswar New City Master Plan area, with bids closing July 24, 2026. The survey is a foundational technical step required before finalizing the master plan for the new 800-acre township.

Topographic surveys combined with LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology capture precise three-dimensional terrain data and ground features across the project area, providing the baseline information essential for detailed master plan preparation and infrastructure design.

Background: Cabinet Approval and Surbana Jurong Agreement

The proposal for development of the New City over an area of approximately 800 acres, covering Mouza Gothapatna, Malipada and Daspur within the Bhubaneswar Development Plan Area (BDPA), has already been approved by the State Cabinet in its meeting held on September 10, 2025.

The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) signed an agreement on Tuesday with Singapore-based Surbana Jurong to prepare a comprehensive master plan for a proposed New City in Bhubaneswar. The agreement was formally signed by BDA Secretary Manas Ranjan Padhi and Surbana Jurong Deputy Director Manideep Dutta.

Project Vision and Scale

The ambitious project will span over nearly 800 acres across the mouzas of Gothapatna, Malipada, and Daspur. It is envisioned as a multi-economic growth zone aligned with Odisha's long-term development vision, Bikashita Odisha 2036.

The project, with an approved outlay of approximately INR 8,179 crore, aims to accommodate urban expansion, provide affordable housing across income groups, and integrate commercial, residential, and institutional zones.

The township is set to be developed within the Bhubaneswar Development Plan Area (BDPA) and is anticipated to accommodate the projected population of over 2 million by the year 2036.

Planned Infrastructure and Features

The proposed New City will be developed as a transit-oriented urban hub, emphasizing efficient public transport systems, reduced travel time, and seamless integration of mixed land use.

The proposed township will boast state-of-the-art infrastructure, including MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) facilities, innovation hubs, plug-and-play infrastructure, and data management centers.

A key component of the project will be the provision of inclusive and affordable housing options under the "Housing for All" framework, catering to various income groups.

Scope of Surbana Jurong's Role

As per the agreed scope, Surbana Jurong will undertake projectisation of the New City Master Plan, identifying priority projects across short-, medium- and long-term horizons, with defined objectives, scope, timelines and schematic urban design.

The firm will also provide technical handholding and support for preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs). The scope further includes preparation of a comprehensive Urban Design Framework and Guidelines, outlining the overall spatial and development structure of the city.

Timeline and Next Steps

The survey tender is currently live on the BDA e-procurement portal as of July 2026. Once an agency is selected and survey work is completed, the detailed data will feed into Surbana Jurong's master plan preparation. After approval of the master plan by the government, work will start for the project.

The BDA has been designated as the nodal agency for implementation, with the master plan expected to serve as a framework for phased development. No formal award or contractor selection for the survey work has been reported as of this search.

Land and Financing

The BDA vice-chairman said the government has about 80 per cent own land along with 200-acre of forest land in the area where the new city will be developed. Only 26 acre of private land will be acquired for the project.

The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has estimated an investment of ₹8,179 crore over a period of 15 years.