In a major urban planning initiative, the Chhattisgarh government has approved the creation of a ‘State Capital Region’ (SCR) on the lines of the National Capital Region (NCR), aimed at transforming Raipur and its surrounding areas—including Durg-Bhilai and Nava Raipur Atal Nagar—into a modern and sustainable urban zone. The bill to constitute the SCR was passed during the monsoon session of the State Assembly, paving the way for a significant development model that could act as the new growth engine of Chhattisgarh.
Focus on Education, Health, Trade, and Infrastructure
Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai‘s government envisions the SCR as a catalyst for planned urban development, designed to meet the rising demands of education, healthcare, commerce, and transport in the region. Strategically located at the heart of India, Chhattisgarh is already evolving as a hub for trade and industry, and the SCR will accelerate this trajectory. The inclusion of modern infrastructure, improved connectivity, and smart urban planning is expected to cater to a projected population of over 50 lakh by 2031.
To address the challenges of growing urbanization and strain on civic infrastructure, a dedicated Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) will be constituted. The model mirrors successful regional bodies like the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority and Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, and is aimed at ensuring comprehensive and environmentally responsible urban growth.
CRDA: Governance, Composition and Mandate
The Chief Minister will serve as the Chairman of the Capital Region Development Authority, which will comprise key officials including the Housing and Environment Minister, Urban Administration Minister, Public Works Minister, Chief Secretary, departmental Secretaries, four MLAs representing the region, and four elected representatives from local bodies. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the CRDA will act as the member convener and also head the Executive Committee of the authority.
The CRDA’s responsibilities will span land-use planning, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, economic investment, and inter-agency coordination. Officials such as urban planners, engineers, finance and property officers, and district collectors of all SCR-included districts will serve as members of the Executive Committee.
Dedicated Capital Region Development Fund and Metro Plans
A Capital Region Development Fund (CRDF) will be set up to finance the area’s growth, supplemented by a revolving fund. The authority will have powers to levy special cess for infrastructure projects and will also prepare annual budgets, development plans, and progress reports for the state government.
In the 2024-25 budget, the state has earmarked Rs. 5 crore each for the survey and DPR preparation for SCR establishment, and for the feasibility study of a proposed Metro Rail project connecting Raipur to Durg.
A Sustainable and Coordinated Development Model
The CRDA will ensure environmentally friendly, sustainable, and integrated development across the region. Emphasis will be placed on green infrastructure and smart city principles, supporting Chhattisgarh’s ambition to emerge as a model for urban transformation in India.
The move is expected to boost investments, generate employment, and significantly enhance the quality of life for residents in Raipur and neighbouring urban clusters.
