Bhubaneswar: In a significant move towards improving funeral services in the city, Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Public Enterprises, and Chairman of the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), laid the foundation stone for a crematorium at Dumuduma on Friday.
The Minister also inaugurated 22 traffic aid posts at Khandagiri in the presence of Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, Additional Commissioner of Police Umashankar Dash, Vice Chairman of BDA N. Thirumala Naik and other senior officials of BDA.
According to a release issued by BDA, the proposed crematorium in Dumuduma will cover 1.58 acres of land, with a budget allocation of Rs. 4.60 crores. The facility is designed to include a spacious waiting hall, separate changing rooms for both men and women, an administrative block, a water body, and a state-of-the-art electrical/gas crematorium.
To ensure inclusivity, the crematorium will be equipped with ramps and tactile signage, making it accessible to all community members. Additionally, the facility will feature a parking area, security measures, and an effective waste management system, emphasizing environmental sustainability.
“This crematorium reflects the government’s commitment to providing dignified and accessible facilities for the deceased and their families, especially as Bhubaneswar evolves into a Smart City”, read the release.
As Bhubaneswar continues to expand, the government recognizes the increasing need for respectful funeral rites that cater to the emotional and spiritual needs of grieving families. This crematorium is expected to provide essential support during difficult times, contributing positively to the community’s overall well-being.
In addition to the crematoriums, Dr Mahapatra inaugurated 22 traffic aid posts at Khandagiri. Traffic aid posts have been introduced to support the well-being of traffic police officers who endure long hours under the sun. Designed to meet their needs, the initiative offers essential amenities such as toilet facilities, shaded rest areas, and an unobstructed view for effective traffic monitoring.
Strategically placed at major junctions, a total of 22 posts have been constructed and handed over to the Commissionerate Police for use. The 22 traffic aid posts have been built at a total cost of Rs 2.6 crore.
These posts will serve as a resting place for traffic personnel, allowing them to take breaks while managing traffic at busy junctions. The posts are equipped with restrooms and drinking water facilities for traffic personnel.
This initiative marks a significant improvement in the working conditions for traffic cops, who often work in extreme weather conditions, ensuring they have the necessary facilities to perform their duties effectively.
