Bhubaneswar, Dec 26:  Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra inaugurated a modern canteen named ‘Srujan’ at Kharavela Bhawan here in Odisha on Friday. The facility, operated by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), will serve 700 employees and visiting citizens, officials said.

Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Mahapatra highlighted that the canteen would serve over 700 employees working in various departments housed in Kharavela Bhawan. He added that citizens visiting the building for official purposes would also benefit, particularly given the limited food and service options in the vicinity. The Minister assured that hygiene, affordability, and quality would remain the cornerstones of the facility.

The canteen is designed as a comprehensive service centre, offering not only hygienic and affordable meals but also train and air ticket booking facilities, along with tourism information and guidance. This integration of services is expected to make ‘Srujan’ a convenient hub for both employees and visitors.

Principal Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department, Usha Padhee, noted that the canteen was developed to meet the needs of all departments functioning within Kharavela Bhawan. She elaborated on the operational system and facilities available, emphasizing the department’s commitment to employee welfare.

The initiative is part of a broader effort by the State Government to improve infrastructure and amenities at Kharavela Bhawan. Earlier this year, the Housing and Urban Development Department was designated as the nodal agency for its management. In March, a creche facility was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, followed now by the launch of the ‘Srujan’ canteen and lounge.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior officials including Municipal Director Arindam Dakua, IRCTC South Central Zone GGM Rajkumar, Bhubaneswar Regional Manager Anuj Dutt, and DGM Catering Services Vikram Verma, alongside other departmental officers.

The launch of ‘Srujan’ reflects the government’s focus on employee welfare and citizen convenience, combining modern amenities with accessible services under one roof.