9th edition of Ekamra Walks launched in Bhubaneswar with Swachh Bharat integration

Bhubaneswar, Nov 7: The 9th edition of Ekamra Walks, a flagship heritage initiative of the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) in collaboration with the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), was launched on Friday, coinciding with the ongoing Indian Road Congress (IRC) in the city.

The special edition was flagged off by BMC Mayor Sulochana Das and BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana at Janata Maidan, the IRC venue, in the presence of senior officials from both organizations.

This year’s Ekamra Walks offers an immersive experience for delegates, tourists, and residents to explore Bhubaneswar’s rich heritage, culture, nature, and spirituality, while emphasizing the city’s growing focus on cleanliness and civic responsibility. Following the IRC special walk, regular trails will run from November 15, 2025, to February 28, 2026.

Speaking at the launch, Mayor Sulochana Das said, “The Indian Road Congress, held alongside Ekamra Walks, presents a golden opportunity for visitors to experience Bhubaneswar’s art and cultural legacy, attracting more tourists to our capital.”

BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana added, “This edition of Ekamra Walks, aligned with the Swachh Bharat Mission, transforms our heritage trails into platforms that promote cleanliness and civic awareness through engaging, on-ground experiences.”

The 2025–26 edition features nine thematic trails, including the Ekamra Heritage Walk, Dhauli Peace Walk, Spiritual Sojourn, Mystical Odyssey, and Odia Literary Trail, among others. Each integrates a Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) component—such as Cleanliness Pledges, waste-free practices, and educational kits—to reinforce the message of “Clean Heritage, Green Future.”

With Ekamra Haat as the central starting point, all walks will be guided by trained coordinators, featuring SBM-themed collaterals and signage to inspire participants to become ‘Swachh Heritage Ambassadors’ for Bhubaneswar.