Kathjodi Riverfront Development - Cuttack, Odisha, INDIA

Piloo Modi College of Architecture,ABIT, Cuttack, Orissa

Project idea

“Water is the driving force of all nature.” – Leonardo Da Vinci

People are drawn to water. Human interaction with water is foremost feature that calls for riverfront development. People have a strong desire to feel it, reach it; and thus it becomes very important that approach to water should be given, public space production along the river shore should be a primary purpose.

This project aims at developing the riverfront at Kathjodi, along the Subash Chandra Bose Setu Square in the culturally rich city of Cuttack, Odisha.

Project description

A waterfront of any city is a major avenue for recreation opportunities and open green spaces within city development from an urban perspective. The urban waterfronts in the form of riverfront development, canals / lake front development or even seafront development have been long neglected. These urban forms have undergone a dramatic metamorphosis and cities are turning to the development of their rivers and lakes. To improve the quality of the city's urban life and enhance cultural growth; Lakefronts, beaches and riverside promenades are being developed with a view that such planned spaces would attract investment, tourism, employment and add to the economic growth of the city.

The Kathajodi River is an arm of the Mahanadi River in Odisha, India. It branches off at Naraj barrage, then immediately is bifurcated. The southern branch, known as Kuakhai, which means Crow's pool, and flows into the Puri district. Its mouth is closed by a bar, so that little water flows into it except at flood times.

During rains, the river and its branches carry great volume of water in them and at the time of high floods they overflow their banks. To safeguard people from the ravages of flood, embankments have been erected on their banks where necessary. Around Naraj Bridge, which is approximately 10 kilometres (6 miles) from Cuttack city.

The design theme of the Kathjodi Riverfront Development Project is to create a Sustainable, Diverse and Integrated riverfront,

The Riverfront Development Project is envisioned to renew and rejuvenate River Kathjodi by creating an active and public riverfront with improved physical and social infrastructure through overall experience and recreational activities that will transform the heart of the city while still preserving the natural environment of the river. The Riverfront will also be filled with cultural and recreational activities celebrating the rich culture and heritage of Cuttack, Odisha.

Technical information

Site Location : Along Kathjodi Riverfront, CDA sector 1, Cuttack Odisha, INDIA
Site Area : 43 Acres