Viksit Odisha / Odisha Govt Announces ₹560 Cr Boost for 28 NACs, Launches 593 Urban Projects

Bhubaneswar, Aug 31: On the occasion of State-Level Local Self-Governance Day, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi made a major announcement, pledging ₹560 crore for infrastructure development across 28 newly declared Notified Area Councils (NACs).

Each NAC will receive ₹20 crore to strengthen civic facilities including roads, new administrative buildings, drainage systems, and other essential works.

Marking the day, the Chief Minister also inaugurated and laid foundation stones for several development projects. A total of 423 projects worth ₹102 crore were inaugurated, while 170 projects worth ₹221 crore saw foundation stone ceremonies.

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Altogether, across 62 urban areas, 593 projects worth ₹323.13 crore were launched or initiated.

CM Majhi highlighted the Mukhyamantri Sahari Bikash Yojana (MSBY) as a flagship initiative to reinforce urban infrastructure and citizen amenities. Under MSBY, 500 new projects were inaugurated on Monday.

To enhance governance efficiency, the state introduced OSWAN Video Conferencing facilities across 115 urban local bodies. Officials said the system will save time, money, and resources while ensuring faster, transparent, and accountable decision-making.

In addition, the Odisha Passenger Safety (SOS) App was launched to make urban transport safer, smoother, and more passenger-friendly.

To strengthen municipal administration, the state signed MoUs with Odisha Urban Academy, Sri Sri University, Indian School of Business, and NIUA, aiming to build research-driven, skilled urban governance.

The government, on the other hand, has taken a tough stance against contractors delaying mega water projects.

Authorities confirmed that instead of issuing notices, police cases will now be filed directly against defaulting contractors.

In Brahmagiri block, complaints were lodged regarding delays in the mega drinking water project initiated in 2022-23 for 59 villages. Allegations include unfinished repair works and negligence in pipeline construction.

Officials stressed that strict action will follow, with departmental demands already raised for accountability.