Bhubaneswar Development Authority Marks 42nd Foundation Day with Focus on Strategic Urban Development

Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) celebrated its 42nd Foundation Day today at Jaydev Bhawan, with a renewed focus on strategic urban planning and sustainable development. The event saw the participation of key dignitaries, including Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Hon’ble Minister of Housing & Urban Development and Public Enterprises, and Chairman of BDA, as the Chief Guest.

The celebration also included the presence of Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das, MLA Bhubaneswar Ekamra Babu Singh, BDA Vice Chairman Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Secretary Snigdharani Dhal, and Samir Mohanty, President of the BDA Karmachari United Forum.

In his address, Dr. Mahapatra highlighted the necessity of strategic urban planning to accommodate Bhubaneswar’s expanding population. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between public authorities and the citizens to ensure the city’s growth while maintaining its greenery and addressing essential infrastructure needs like sewerage and drainage systems. “Our goal is to make Bhubaneswar a world-class city, and this requires coordinated efforts from all sectors,” he stated.

Mayor Smt. Sulochana Das emphasized BDA’s role in making Bhubaneswar an inclusive city, particularly in the face of climate change. She noted how urban development must incorporate sustainable practices to mitigate the impact of environmental challenges.

MLA Babu Singh called for prioritizing projects that provide housing for the urban homeless, reflecting on the city’s rapid population growth. “With Bhubaneswar expanding rapidly, it is vital that we focus on providing shelter and addressing the needs of the underprivileged,” he urged.

BDA Vice Chairman Dr. N. Thirumala Naik reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to comprehensive city development, stating that the BDA would continue working towards improving the living standards of all residents. He outlined ongoing and upcoming projects aimed at modernizing the city while preserving its cultural and environmental heritage.

On behalf of BDA employees, Samir Mohanty reiterated the demand for implementing a pension scheme for the workforce, underscoring the long-term welfare of BDA staff.

As part of the Foundation Day celebrations, Minister Dr. Mahapatra unveiled the BDA’s Annual Report, highlighting the authority’s accomplishments and future plans. A special recognition was given to Amlan Singh, son of BDA staff member Subasini Parida, for his outstanding achievement of securing 97% in this year’s HSC Examination. He was honored with a certificate and a cash prize of ₹10,000.

A free health check-up camp for BDA employees was organized as part of the event, and more than 1,000 saplings were distributed to residents at major BDA parks to promote environmental awareness and the city’s green initiatives.