Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs Organizes Dual Urban Development Events in Bhubaneswar
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Government of India, with support from the Government of Odisha, is organizing two major urban development events in Bhubaneswar during October 23-25, 2026. Both events will take place at Hotel Mayfair Sanctuary, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
19th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition 2026
The 19th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition will be held on October 23-24, 2026, organized by MoHUA through the Institute of Urban Transport (India). The conference theme is 'Urban Accessibility and Liveability in Digital Age', focusing on improving urban accessibility, integrated transport infrastructure, and quality of urban life through emerging digital technologies. Key discussion areas include sustainable and low-carbon public transport, integration of different transport modes, first- and last-mile connectivity, and the role of technology in improving urban mobility. The conference will also examine Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and real-time GPS-based solutions for seamless transport services.
Approximately 1500 delegates including national and international speakers are expected to attend. The event will include an exhibition showcasing best practices in urban transport, latest technologies and services, with participation from 28 exhibitors including Government of Odisha, Metro Rail Companies, and public and private sector entities. A research symposium will feature 46 research papers selected by peer review, with 20 candidates presenting and 26 through poster presentations. The best three research papers will receive cash awards of Rs. 25,000 each.
Second National Urban Conclave 2026
The second edition of the National Urban Conclave will be held on October 24-25, 2026, organized by MoHUA with support from Government of Odisha, HUDCO, and NBCC. The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) serves as knowledge partner. The conclave theme is 'Urban Rising – Rethinking Urban Systems, Solutions and Delivery', focusing on strengthening urban systems, institutions, and implementation mechanisms to improve Indian cities' functioning.
The conclave will address seven key thematic areas: Right to Walk (safer streets and pedestrian accessibility), Water, Waste and Resource Efficiency (service efficiency and waste recovery), Affordable Housing (rental accommodation and construction technologies), Integrated Urban Development and Infrastructure Delivery (agency coordination and GIS-based systems), New Paradigms for Urban Service Delivery (municipal service improvements), Model Building Bye-Laws (regulatory framework revisions), and Model Municipal Law (legislative reforms for municipal autonomy).
The event will also include a meeting of Urban Development Ministers from states and Union Territories to review progress and identify priorities requiring further action.
Odisha's Participation and Initiatives
The Government of Odisha is showcasing several initiatives during the events, including the launch of PM e-Bus Sewa in Odisha to advance cleaner public transport. The state will launch the ANKUR Handbook, Odisha Town Planning Handbooks, and Policy on Government and Privately Owned Public Spaces. A dedicated CRUT pavilion will showcase Odisha's public transport journey including Ama Bus, electric mobility, and women's participation.
Cultural elements include a sand art installation by Sudarsan Pattnaik connecting Odisha's heritage with sustainable mobility. Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation is undertaking city cleanliness and beautification efforts, while Bhubaneswar Development Authority will showcase planned urban development and public transport infrastructure. Heritage walks and cycling activities will promote non-motorized mobility.
Odisha will also showcase women's entrepreneurship through Mission Shakti's self-help group products, handicraft traditions through Utkalika, handloom legacy through Boyanika, and regional produce through Koraput Coffee.
Inauguration and Participation
Both events will be inaugurated by Shri Tokhan Sahu, Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, in the presence of Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Minister of Odisha. Other dignitaries include Shri Anurag Jain, CEO of NITI Aayog, and Shri Rajiv Gauba, Member of NITI Aayog. The Urban Mobility India Conference will also feature Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister of Housing & Urban Development, Government of Odisha.