Bhadrak: In adherence to the directives of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Kartik Pandian, Chairman of 5T and Nabin Odisha, undertook a comprehensive ground inspection in Bhadrak District. This initiative aimed at personally assessing the progress of vital projects and addressing the grievances and demands of the local community.
Traversing approximately 50 km, including a stretch on a bike, along the Baitarani left embankment, Kartik Pandian primarily focused on reviewing the ongoing Baitarani Left Embankment Strengthening and Road Development Project, with a total cost of Rs. 150.24 Crs. This project, initiated based on feedback from the community during his last visit to Dhamnagar in December 2023, holds paramount significance in mitigating the impact of floods in Bhandaripokhari, Dhamnagar, and Chandbali areas during flood situations in the Baitarani River. The accompanying Pucca Road from Biridi to Tintar Ghat over the river embankment is anticipated to reduce travel time by 2 hours, providing faster access to Jajpur Medical College and NH 16. The project is expected to benefit approximately 1,20,000 people in Bhadrak.
Another focal point of the visit was the inspection of the Akhuapada and Kochila Instream Storage Structures over the river Baitarani, amounting to a total cost of Rs. 681 Crs. These projects, designed to provide irrigation facilities to an ayacut area of 81,200 acres, will contribute to improved agricultural practices, particularly during the Rabi season. Additionally, they are anticipated to boost the fishery sector in the region.
Both of these initiatives were sanctioned and initiated based on the grievances and demands expressed by the local population during Kartik Pandian’s visit to Bhadrak in June.
Throughout the journey, Kartik Pandian was greeted by a large number of people who appreciated his pro-people approach and hands-on examination of the ground situation. The visit included public meetings at Akhuapada Field and IGM College Field in Dhamnagar.
During interactions with the public, Kartik Pandian disseminated information about significant decisions taken by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. This included an increase in social security pensions across all categories by Rs. 500 each, benefiting approximately 58 lakhs beneficiaries. Furthermore, financial assistance under the MAMATA Yojana has been augmented from Rs. 5000 to Rs. 10,000, providing improved nutrition and better health outcomes for women and infants.
A noteworthy announcement concerned the launch of the Nua-O Scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students in state universities and colleges. Male students will receive Rs 9,000, while female students will receive Rs 10,000 annually. SC/ST and Nirman Shramik Families-eligible students will receive Rs 10,000 (Male) and Rs 11,000 (Female) per annum. Scholarships for the current academic year will be deposited in the bank accounts of eligible students from Feb 26th onwards.
Kartik Pandian also highlighted the LaCCMI Scheme, which envisages the rollout of bus services in every Gram Panchayat of Bhadrak district. Under this scheme, the bus fare for female passengers and students will be Rs 5/-. During his interactions with the public, Kartik Pandian received grievances on various issues and assured prompt resolutions.