On 1 April 2025, UNDP released a new publication titled “The Rourkela Coold Room Project”, which highlights the innovative initiative of reducing food waste, supporting farmers and vendors, and empowering women in the city of Rourkela, India.

This publication documents the initiative led by the Rourkela Municipal Corporation—winner of the 2021 Global Mayors Challenge—with support from UNDP between 2022 and 2025.

The city of Rourkela is transforming food storage, market access, and women’s participation through the following actions:

• Solar-powered cold rooms: five cold storage units powered by solar energy were built in strategic market locations. These facilities offer short-term, temperature-controlled storage for fruits and vegetables, significantly reducing spoilage, stabilizing prices, and ensuring food safety.

• Market integration: farmers and vendors are linked directly with institutional buyers—such as hotels, schools, and canteens—ensuring fair prices and reliable demand. Organic shops and home delivery services further expand consumer access to fresh produce.

• Women-led entrepreneurship: women’s cooperatives manage the cold rooms, gaining training in technical operations, business management, and financial literacy. This promotes financial independence, leadership, and strengthened community roles.

• Sustainable logistics: electric rickshaws are used for efficient, eco-friendly transportation of produce between cold rooms, city markets, and consumers’ homes, reducing costs and carbon emissions.

• Infrastructure and technology: the project integrates green technologies, including solar panels and customized cold storage designs, tailored to local needs and climate conditions.

The Cold Room Project has already led to significant outcomes: a 31% reduction in food waste, up to fivefold increases in cooperative revenue, and formal employment for over 40 women. Moreover, more than 90% of participating women reported feeling empowered to participate in household financial decisions and many experienced increased social recognition.