Bhubaneswar, Sept 1: The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) celebrated its 42nd Foundation Day today.

H & UD and Public Enterprises Minister and BDA Chairman Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra graced the foundation day as Chief Guest. BMC Mayor Sulochana Das, Bhubaneswar-Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, BDA Vice-Chairman Dr N Thirumala Naik, Secretary Snigdharani Dhal and BDA Karmachari United Forum president Samir Mohanty attended the event.

In his speech, Minister Mahapatra emphasized 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, which affect urban development.

MLA Babu Singh urged the BDA to prioritize projects that provide shelter for the urban homeless, noting the city's rapid growth and population increase. BDA Vice-Chairman Dr. Naik reaffirmed the authority's commitment to comprehensive city development and enhancing residents' living standards.

Forum president Samir Mohanty reiterated his demand for implementing a pension scheme for BDA employees.

On the occasion, the Minister unveiled the Annual Report of BDA and Amlan Singh, son of BDA staff member Subasini Parida, was honored for securing 97% in this year's HSC Examination, with a certificate and a cash prize of Rs 10,000.

In the end, Secretary Snigdharani Dhal proposed a vote of thanks. 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.

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