Curation Team
KORAPUT: State govt has approved the geographic information system and remote sensing (GIS/RS)-based master plan for Jeypore town, nearly eight months after its draft was submitted to the housing and urban development department.
Initially published in July 2023, the plan underwent modifications based on consultations with stakeholders before receiving the final sanction.
“The newly approved master plan covers a total area of 7,717.20 acres and incorporates 15 surrounding revenue villages, including major localities such as Jeypore, Jayanagar, Jagadhatripur, Laxmanpur, and others. The plan outlines zoning regulations to ensure organised growth with designated residential, commercial and green spaces,” said Koraput collector Keerthi Vasan V.
To support Jeypore’s growing needs, several infrastructure projects are underway, including the construction of a bypass road for NH-326, a ring road and the widening of internal roads. “In coming days, more development works will be implemented in Jeypore as per the new master plan to meet the growing needs of the town,” the collector said.
Officials said that under the Odisha Town Planning and Improvement Trust Act, 1956, landowners within the master plan area must obtain a valid licence before initiating construction. Special Planning Authority, Jeypore, will handle approvals within the municipal limits, while the Koraput Regional Improvement Trust (KRIT) will oversee those outside the area. Violations, including unauthorised construction, could result in penalties under Section 152 of the Act and illegal developments will not be compensated if acquired for future projects.
The last master plan for Jeypore was prepared in 1981 when the town had a population of 58,314. It was valid until 2011, but no new plan was implemented since then, leading to concerns about unregulated expansion.
