Bhubaneswar’s progress as a smart and sustainable city has drawn international recognition, with a 40-member delegation from the Global South Young Diplomats Forum visiting Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited (BSCL) on Sunday to review its urban development model.

Representing 40 countries, the diplomats interacted with senior officials and examined technology-driven initiatives integrating digital systems with governance and civic services. They were welcomed at the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation’s ICOMC tower by BSCL Managing Director Dr Thirumala Naik (IAS) and General Manager Purandar Nanda (OAS).

The delegation was briefed on the city’s command and control centre, intelligent traffic management, real-time grievance redressal, and digital monitoring of water supply, sanitation, and public safety. Officials highlighted Bhubaneswar’s strategies to tackle rapid urbanisation through data-led planning, smart lighting, efficient public transport, and sustainable infrastructure.

The visitors also learned about the city’s focus on green energy, waste management, carbon footprint reduction, and integrated transport corridors that promote non-motorised mobility. The exchange created opportunities for cross-learning, with many diplomats expressing interest in replicating Bhubaneswar’s innovative systems in their own countries.