Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards enhancing urban infrastructure and public services, Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Public Enterprises, and Chairman of the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), laid the foundation stone for a new crematorium in Dumuduma and inaugurated 22 traffic aid posts at Khandagiri. The event was attended by Babu Singh, Hon’ble MLA (Ekamra), Dr. Umashankar Dash, Additional Commissioner of Police, Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Vice Chairman of BDA, and other senior officials.
The crematorium in Dumuduma, covering 1.58 acres, will be constructed with a budget of ₹4.60 crore. The facility has been designed to provide modern and dignified funeral services, featuring a spacious waiting hall, separate changing rooms for men and women, an administrative block, a water body, and a state-of-the-art electrical/gas crematorium for eco-friendly operations. The crematorium will also ensure accessibility for all with wheelchair ramps and tactile signage. Additionally, a dedicated parking area, security measures, and an effective waste management system will be in place, prioritizing environmental sustainability.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Mahapatra emphasized the need for well-equipped funeral facilities as Bhubaneswar continues to expand. He stated that providing dignified and efficient cremation services is a key part of urban development and that the new crematorium will help ease the burden on existing facilities while ensuring families have the support they need during difficult times.
Alongside the foundation-laying ceremony, Dr. Mahapatra also inaugurated 22 traffic aid posts at Khandagiri, aimed at improving the working conditions of traffic police personnel who spend long hours managing traffic in extreme weather conditions. These traffic aid posts, built at a total cost of ₹2.6 crore, are strategically placed at major junctions and provide essential amenities, including shaded rest areas, toilet facilities, and drinking water. The initiative will help traffic officers take much-needed breaks while ensuring they can continue to effectively monitor and manage the city’s traffic flow.
The Minister highlighted that these efforts reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening urban infrastructure in Bhubaneswar. By addressing critical needs such as funeral services and traffic management facilities, the state is working towards making the capital city more efficient and inclusive. The traffic aid posts have been handed over to the Commissionerate Police for use, ensuring that officers have a comfortable and functional space while carrying out their duties.
With these developments, Bhubaneswar is taking a significant step towards improving public services and urban amenities, reinforcing its position as a progressive and well-planned Smart City.
