Ranchi, September 03, 2026: The Jharkhand government will assess the feasibility of developing satellite townships in districts beyond Ranchi, with Chief Minister Hemant Soren directing officials to prepare a detailed action plan based on land availability, connectivity, infrastructure and future civic requirements.
Soren issued the directions during a high-level meeting at the Jharkhand Secretariat on Thursday to review land-related matters linked to the Greater Ranchi Development Authority and Ranchi Smart City projects.
The proposed satellite townships are intended to support planned urban expansion and create modern urban centres equipped with basic amenities, safer surroundings, better public services and smoother transportation.
Officials have been asked to assess potential locations by considering available land, existing infrastructure, connectivity, civic facilities, employment opportunities and projected population requirements before preparing district-specific plans.
Focus on planned urban expansion
Soren said urbanisation should not be limited to construction of high-rise buildings. According to the Chief Minister, future urban centres should be planned around the safety and convenience of residents, along with efficient transport and quality public services.
The government also discussed the possibility of expanding Ranchi Smart City after assessing its existing infrastructure and available resources. Officials were asked to prepare a long-term plan that takes into account population growth, economic activity and changing urban requirements.
The meeting also considered the possibility of future discussions with Heavy Engineering Corporation Limited on land and other issues related to planned development in the area.
Smart city projects expected to support jobs and investment
Soren said projects modelled on smart-city development should contribute not only to urban infrastructure but also create opportunities for investment, employment, business and other economic activities.
He directed officials to speed up land-related work and other processes associated with the projects through better coordination. Regular reviews and time-bound completion of targets were also emphasised.
The Chief Minister further stressed that urban planning should address both present requirements and the needs of future generations, with the broader objective of giving Jharkhand’s cities a stronger identity in infrastructure, civic amenities and public services.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Development Commissioner Ajay Kumar Singh, Urban Development Department Principal Secretary Sunil Kumar, Finance Department Secretary Prashant Kumar, Industries Department Secretary Arva Rajkamal, Revenue Department Secretary Chandrashekhar, Ranchi Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri, Smart City CEO Suraj Kumar, JIADA MD Varun Ranjan and Smart City General Manager Rakesh Kumar Nandkuliar, among other officials.
