Bhubaneswar, Oct 13 (UDN): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday inaugurated 1,608 affordable housing units across two residential projects in Bhubaneswar and launched a new housing initiative aimed at migrant workers and economically weaker families.
Pic Credit: x.com/CMO_Odisha
The programmes, held in Ghatikia, also saw the inauguration of 12 modern playgrounds developed by the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA). In addition, shelter was provided to 962 families in Budha Vihar, Nilamadhav, Subudhipur and Shantipalli.
Addressing the gathering, Majhi said the government aimed to build a city where economically disadvantaged families could live with dignity, workers could find affordable housing and young people could access facilities to develop their talents.
Two Housing Projects Add 1,608 Affordable Homes
The Chief Minister inaugurated Nilakanteshwar Residency in Ghatikia, comprising 928 houses built on more than five acres at a cost of Rs 66.48 crore.
He also opened Muktaswar Residency in Gadakana, which has 680 houses spread across more than six acres and was developed at an estimated cost of Rs 95 crore.
Together, the two projects provide 1,608 affordable housing units for eligible beneficiaries.
During the programme, Majhi handed over allotment letters to selected beneficiaries of both projects. Bank loan assistance ranging from Rs 1.20 lakh to Rs 1.35 lakh was also distributed to several beneficiaries to support their housing needs.
PMAY-Urban BANDHU Targets Migrant Workers
A major highlight of the event was the launch of PMAY-Urban BANDHU, a housing initiative designed to help migrant workers and lower-income families find affordable accommodation close to their workplaces.
The scheme aims to reduce housing difficulties for workers who move to urban centres for employment. Affordable rental housing is expected to help beneficiaries access work opportunities without facing excessive accommodation costs.
The government has also facilitated housing loans through banks and financial institutions. Majhi laid the foundation stone for an affordable housing project at Gadakana under the initiative.
Highlighting the importance of secure housing, the Chief Minister said a roof over one’s head was among the most fundamental necessities after food. He also referred to the benefits of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, which supports housing alongside basic amenities such as toilets, piped drinking water, electricity and cooking gas.
According to Majhi, more than two lakh houses have been sanctioned under PMAY-Urban in Odisha, while the State government aims to provide around five lakh houses through the Antyodaya Griha Yojana.
12 Modern Playgrounds Opened Across the City
Alongside the housing initiatives, the Chief Minister inaugurated 12 modern playgrounds developed by the BDA at locations across Bhubaneswar.
The facilities are situated at Bajrangi, K-4, Kolathia, Tamando, Nakhara, the CBSE Regional Office area, Yadupur, Damana High School, Unit-2 Girls High School, Bhubaneswar Central UP School, Ghatikia, Unit-8 Boys High School and Shaheed Nagar High School.
The playgrounds are intended to expand access to recreational and sports facilities for children and young people across different neighbourhoods.
Ministers and Elected Representatives Attend
Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mohapatra said the new housing facilities would help slum residents secure permanent addresses and could positively influence their educational opportunities and social standing.
Ekamra-Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh also welcomed the initiatives, while Khurda MLA Prashant Jagdev, Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das, BDA Vice-Chairman and Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation Commissioner Chanchal Rana, and BDA Secretary Manas Ranjan Padhi were among those present.
The projects represent a combined push towards affordable housing, improved public spaces and urban welfare. Through new residential facilities and targeted support for migrant workers, the government aims to make Bhubaneswar more inclusive and improve access to essential urban amenities.
