Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken a groundbreaking step to enhance citizen services by introducing two innovative digital platforms. Through partnerships with IndusInd Bank, PeLocal Fintech Private Limited, and Emertech RND Solutions Private Limited, the initiative aims to simplify municipal services and improve public engagement.
A key highlight of the initiative is the launch of a WhatsApp Chatbot Application designed to make municipal services more accessible to residents. The chatbot will enable users to conveniently pay property taxes, trade licenses, and fees for essential services such as birth and death certificates. It will also provide an efficient platform for lodging and resolving grievances.
At the launch event, Mayor Sulochana Das stressed the importance of leveraging technology to address urban challenges. “BMC’s commitment to innovation reflects our vision to improve community participation and deliver better facilities for citizens,” she said.
Another significant development is the creation of a Market and Vending Zone Rental Collection Application. Developed in partnership with IndusInd Bank and Emertech RND Solutions, this platform is expected to streamline the rental collection process for markets and vending zones, enhancing operational efficiency and transparency.
BMC Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil underlined the importance of adopting familiar technologies like WhatsApp to ensure widespread public usage. He noted that such user-friendly solutions are vital for engaging citizens effectively and addressing their needs. “These applications demonstrate how technology can bridge the gap between governance and community,” he added.
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including Additional Commissioners Suvendu Kumar Sahu and Ratnakar Sahoo, along with representatives from IndusInd Bank, such as State Head Arup Mohapatra, Regional Head Prasant Goud, and State Technical Head Subhasish Sahoo. Santosh Reddy from Emertech RND Solutions Private Limited also participated in the event.
Deputy Commissioner of Revenue Ajay Kumar Mohanty led the coordination for the MoU, and the ceremony was graced by corporators, senior BMC officials, and representatives from partnering organizations.
