Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) celebrated its 42nd Foundation Day on Sunday at Jaydev Bhawan.
Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, H&UD Department and Public Enterprises Department Minister, and Chairman, BDA, attended the foundation day as chief guest, while Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das, MLA Babu Singh, BDA Vice Chairman Dr N Thirumala Naik, BDA Secretary Snigdharani Dhal, and Samir Mohanty, president of the BDA Karmachari United Forum, graced the occasion.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Mahapatra emphasised the need for strategic urban planning to accommodate Bhubaneswar’s growing population. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between authorities and the public to develop the city, maintain its greenery, and improve its sewerage and drainage systems, aiming to make Bhubaneswar a world-class city.
Mayor Sulochana Das underscored BDA’s critical role in making Bhubaneswar an inclusive city and addressing the challenges of climate change that affect urban development.
Babu Singh urged the BDA to prioritise projects that provide shelter for the urban homeless, noting the city’s rapid growth and population increase. Dr Naik reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to comprehensive city development and enhancing residents’ living standards.
Samir Mohanty reiterated his demand for implementing a pension scheme for BDA employees. On the occasion, the minister unveiled the annual report of BDA. Amlan Singh, son of BDA staff member Subasini Parida, was felicitated for securing 97% in this year’s HSC Examination, with a certificate and a cash prize of Rs 10,000.
Earlier, a free health check-up camp was organised for employees of BDA and more than 1,000 saplings were distributed to city residents at major BDA parks.
