Bhubaneswar: The state govt has initiated plans to develop a mega, integrated IT park near Damana Square in close proximity to Jaydev Vihar-Nandankanan Road, positioning the project as a key driver of the state’s digital economy and employment generation.The proposed IT park, to be developed by the electronics and information technology department, is envisioned as a future-ready technology hub that will strengthen Odisha’s reputation as an emerging IT and IT-enabled services (ITES) destination, officials said.According to the expression of interest (EOI) floated by the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC), the project will be implemented through private sector participation, with a developer responsible for design, financing, operating and maintaining the facility.Strategically located in the city’s growing technology corridor, the project site at Damana Square lies between Infocity, about 3 km away, and Infovalley, about 23 km away, enhancing its appeal for investors and technology firms.The mega IT park is planned as a “walk-to-work” ecosystem spanning around 25 acres, with an estimated 45 lakh sq ft of built-up space, a significant portion of which will be dedicated to IT/ITES operations.Officials said that the development will go beyond conventional office spaces, integrating commercial, residential and recreational components to create a self-contained urban ecosystem.“The infrastructure blueprint includes modern office towers, co-working and incubation spaces, retail and hospitality facilities, and serviced apartments that aimed at supporting both global firms and startups,” officials added.The IT park is also expected to incorporate smart and sustainable design features, including green building standards, high-speed digital connectivity and efficient utility systems, aligning with the state’s push toward sustainable urban development.The initiative is part of the state’s larger strategy to build a robust digital ecosystem, promote investment in the IT sector and boost employment opportunities. The govt has been focusing on expanding digital infrastructure and support entrepreneurship.Officials associated with the project said that OCAC, the technical directorate of the state govt, will act as the nodal agency, facilitating the project and assisting the selected developer in obtaining necessary approvals and infrastructure support.Notably, OCAC has already obtained approval and space to operate IT and ITES operations from the Baba Saheb Ambedkar Bus Terminal in Baramunda. Besides, the state govt is also in the process of developing an iconic IT tower at Satya Nagar.
