Bhubaneswar: In light of the prevailing model code of conduct enforced due to dual elections in the state, the Odisha government has decided to celebrate Bhubaneswar Foundation Day for one day only.
The decision was made during a preparatory meeting for the official celebration, chaired by Development Commissioner Anu Garg, in Bhubaneswar on Saturday.
Addressing the meeting, Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, the commissioner of Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), announced that the capital city of Odisha will mark its 76th year on April 13 with the foundation day celebrations. However, due to the code of conduct, the festivities will be conducted with austerity and limited participation.
As part of the revised plans, the celebration will be condensed to a single day instead of the usual three days.
Due to the ongoing heatwave, certain activities, such as the civilian parade by students and cultural competitions, will not be organized as per tradition. However, the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture department will arrange a cultural program at Jaydev Bhawan in the evening to commemorate the occasion.
To enhance the celebratory ambiance, all state government buildings will be adorned with vibrant lights, and arcades and gates will be installed at prominent locations across the city on the day, Patil further elaborated.