An Insight into Living in Bhubaneswar, India's Thriving Smart City

Bhubaneswar stands out as one of the fastest-growing cities in eastern India, following closely behind the bustling metropolis of Visakhapatnam. This vibrant city in the state of Odisha has a unique blend of modern planning and traditional charm, making it a fascinating place to live. Let’s delve into what it's like to call Bhubaneswar home, weighing its pros and cons.

Plan of the City

Bhubaneswar was designed by the renowned urban planner Otto Konigsberger, who also designed the city of Chandigarh. This careful planning makes Bhubaneswar stand out as one of India's best smart cities. However, the city grapples with frequent power cuts, which can be challenging. An inverter is highly recommended for households to ensure smooth functioning during unexpected power outages.

Education and Higher Learning

The city boasts several higher education institutions, though they heavily rely on students from neighboring states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Odisha. While these institutions are numerous, the quality of education may not match that found in cities like Pune, Delhi, Kolkata, or Bangalore. The focus is on ensuring a wide range of educational opportunities, even if the quality is not on par with some other major Indian cities.

Recreational Spaces

Bhubaneswar is known for its numerous parks and gardens, providing residents with ample green space. The city is well-connected to other parts of India via air and rail networks. The Bhubaneswar Airport is one of the busiest in the eastern coast and offers excellent connectivity. The combination of green spaces and accessibility makes Bhubaneswar a livable city.

Culinary Scene

The city lacks a distinct food culture of its own, with most hotels attempting to mimic the tastes of other major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Indore, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. This homogenization has altered the traditional food scene, with Dahi Bhall, a local delicacy from the nearby city of Cuttack, often overshadowed.

Diversity and Population

Majority of the residents in Bhubaneswar hail from various parts of Odisha and have settled in the city over the past two to three decades. This diversity brings a rich mix of culture and traditions to the city. With a decent standard of living and excellent medical facilities, including renowned hospitals like AMRI, Apollo, and AIIMS, Bhubaneswar offers a good quality of life.

Transport and Infrastructure

The city's infrastructure includes excellent public transport options, particularly the MO Bus, which has been a commendable success story for urban transport. However, the city faces challenges with narrow main roads that may become congested as it continues to grow rapidly. Despite these issues, Bhubaneswar remains a relatively safe and secure city, with a low incidence of unpleasant events.

Career Opportunities and Business

Bhubaneswar is home to several companies and accounts for a significant portion of the state's IT2/3 industry. However, the city lacks a robust presence of private sector companies, which limits the scope for career growth and opportunities. As a result, individuals seeking more growth potential may find themselves moving to larger cities like Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.

Leisure and Cultural Activities

Bhubaneswar offers numerous leisure activities, including access to nearby beaches and tourist attractions like Puri, Konark, Chandrabhaga, and Rambha. While the city itself may not have a thriving pub and clubbing culture, there are a few places in Patia where residents can enjoy social outings. The city is generally safe until around 10:30 or 11:00 PM, after which it becomes quieter.

Conclusion

Bhubaneswar is a thriving city with a rich tapestry of culture, natural beauty, and modern amenities. While it faces challenges such as frequent power cuts and a lack of distinct food culture, the city is making significant strides in becoming a smart and connected hub. Whether you are a resident or considering moving there, Bhubaneswar offers a unique living experience with a balance of tradition and modernity.