Bhubaneswar: A new chapter in the history of urban development in Odisha unfolded on Thursday as Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated a slew of facilities aimed at enhancing the quality of life for city dwellers. The launch encompassed various initiatives including drinking water facilities, ‘Drink from Tap’ program, paved roads, sewerage systems, and numerous civic amenities, along with land rights and the establishment of Biju Adarsh Colonies.
Patnaik underscored the pivotal role of cities as indicators of a state’s development, emphasizing that prosperous urban centers reflect the overall prosperity of the state. He attributed the success of these development programs to the 5T initiative, noting that they have significantly elevated the standard of living and contributed towards achieving sustainable development goals.
A significant highlight of the event was the distribution of land right certificates to 21,427 families across four cities: Cuttack, Sambalpur, Berhampur, and Rourkela. Additionally, 626 Biju Adarsh Colonies were established in 26 cities, benefiting over two lakh families. The provision of basic amenities to 26 depopulated cities further underscored the government’s commitment to inclusive urban development.
The ‘Drink from Tap’ program, hailed as a model for the country, received special attention from the Chief Minister. He announced the extension of 24/7 drinking water facilities to all families in Berhampur city, emphasizing its significance in enhancing public health and well-being. This initiative has already been implemented in eight cities across the state.
Emphasizing the importance of sanitation, Patnaik quoted Mahatma Gandhi, stating that sanitation is as crucial as freedom. He inaugurated the Odisha Integrated Sanitation Improvement Project for Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, a monumental effort involving an expenditure of Rs 4,000 crore with assistance from JICA. The project encompasses underground sewerage systems, new sewage treatment plants, and improved drainage facilities, further enhancing the cities’ infrastructure.
In addition to these initiatives, the Chief Minister inaugurated multiple drinking water projects benefiting numerous cities, including Jharsuguda, Brijrajnagar, and Belpahad, thereby extending access to clean drinking water to 2.65 lakh residents. Furthermore, the launch of numerous paved roads and civic amenity projects underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing urban infrastructure across the state.
Addressing the beneficiaries, including recipients of land title certificates and beneficiaries of the ‘Drink from Tap’ program, Patnaik reiterated his government’s dedication to serving the people. Their testimonials reflected the transformative impact of these initiatives, providing relief from years of hardship and instilling a sense of security and gratitude among the residents.
The event, attended by Usha Devi, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, and G Mathi Vathanan, Additional Chief Secretary, witnessed the collective celebration of milestones achieved under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. As Odisha marches forward on its path of urban development, these initiatives serve as shining examples of progress, inclusivity, and commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
