H&UD Department Reviews Expenditure, Lays Roadmap for Next Year’s Urban Budget

Bhubaneswar: A high-level review meeting on expenditure and budget utilisation of the Housing & Urban Development (H&UD) Department was held here on Friday under the chairmanship of H&UD Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, with a focus on ensuring timely and effective use of allocated funds.

During the meeting, the Minister assessed the progress of financial utilisation across various ongoing schemes and projects of the department. He directed officials to take prompt and corrective measures wherever required to ensure that budgetary allocations are fully utilised within the stipulated timelines.

“Every rupee allocated in the budget must translate into visible outcomes on the ground. Timely expenditure and effective implementation are essential to accelerate the pace of urban development across the State,” Dr Mohapatra said, stressing the need for outcome-oriented spending.

While discussing preparations for the upcoming financial year, the Minister called for a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to budget formulation. He said the new budget should address all aspects of urban transformation, including improved infrastructure, better service delivery, sustainable city planning, sanitation, housing and enhanced civic amenities.

“Our goal is to build cities that are liveable, resilient and citizen-centric,” he added, emphasising that urban development must align with the evolving needs of citizens.

The Minister also underscored the importance of coordinated efforts among departments, transparent processes and accountable governance to meet the growing demands of urban areas and deliver improved facilities to residents.