Bhubaneswar, Apr 23: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to construct its own petrol pump and vehicle repair garage to reduce the high expenses incurred on fuel and vehicle maintenance. This decision was taken during the monthly corporation meeting held at Ekamra Hall in Bhubaneswar.

In March alone, BMC spent ₹2.69 crore on fuel and ₹56 lakh on vehicle repairs. To address these escalating costs, the corporation has planned to establish its own facilities, ensuring better financial management and operational efficiency.

The meeting also approved the modernisation of the Jamukoli Goshala. Plans include setting up a veterinary hospital, biogas production units, and other necessary facilities near the goshala to enhance its functionality.

Additionally, the corporation has proposed the construction of a modern fish market at Pandara, which has received approval. This initiative aims to provide a dedicated and hygienic space for fish trading.

Despite achieving record tax collection this year, BMC expressed concerns over the state government’s budget allocation. While the government has allocated ₹327 crore for the current financial year, the corporation’s annual expenditure is estimated to be around ₹800 crore. Discussions were held to address this budgetary shortfall.

The meeting also highlighted the introduction of new software to expedite tax collection and deliberated on solutions for various ward-level issues. BMC Mayor Sulochana Das emphasized the importance of these initiatives in improving the city’s infrastructure and governance.

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