Bhubaneswar: In a bid to boost the urban development agenda, Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra chaired a high-level review meeting at Kharavela Bhawan, Bhubaneswar. During the meeting, the Minister announced the introduction of a new governance mechanism, the “First Tuesday Review Drive”, where the first Tuesday of every month will be dedicated to reviewing the department’s flagship schemes and initiatives.
The Minister conducted a comprehensive review of the Mukhyamantri Sahari Bikas Yojana, assessing progress in sanitation, infrastructure, implementation of the GARIMA scheme for sanitation workers, and budget utilisation. He directed officials to expedite works and streamline execution processes, emphasising the importance of timely outcomes.
A key focus area was the Drink-from-Tap Mission, with the Minister calling for urgent action to ensure 24×7 access to safe and clean drinking water in all 115 urban areas. He also reviewed the development of public amenities such as parks, libraries, and Kalyan Mandaps, stressing the need for inclusive design and accessible infrastructure for persons with disabilities.
The Minister also discussed enhancing revenue generation by Urban Local Bodies, filling vacant posts, and scaling up capacity building for improved urban governance and service delivery. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Principal Secretary Smt. Usha Padhee and Director Municipal Administration.
The First Tuesday Review Drive aims to ensure real-time monitoring, swift implementation, and improved accountability across all flagship schemes and initiatives under the department. This new mechanism aligns with the Government’s commitment to transforming Odisha’s urban spaces through structured, inclusive, and efficient development.
