Bhubaneswar, Aug 31: On the occasion of Self-Governance Day, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a series of transformative initiatives in Bhubaneswar aimed at improving urban infrastructure, mobility, sanitation, and housing.

One of the key highlights was the launch of the One Nation One Card — the National Common Mobility Card — which will enable seamless access to various transport services across states.

Women travellers will receive a 15% fare concession when traveling between cities and states. The initiative also includes the rollout of WhatsApp-based ticketing services (for Ama Bus), making public transport more accessible and tech-enabled.

As many as 43 multipurpose centres, MRFs, and plasma pyrolysis units were inaugurated while foundations stone was laid for 6 goshalas, with the projects carrying a total budget of Rs 157 crore.

In a major boost to sanitation and waste management, the CM inaugurated a 10-ton plasma pyrolysis facility dedicated to processing sanitary waste. This unit will segregate sanitary napkins from across Bhubaneswar and convert them into eco-friendly bricks using advanced technology.

Additionally, a 150-ton solid waste processing unit was launched in Palasuni to handle dry waste from the entire city, enhancing Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) capacity for sustainable waste disposal.

Furthering the government’s commitment to inclusive housing, CM Majhi distributed homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) to over 394 slum dwellers, including 20 transgender and differently-abled beneficiaries. The housing units are priced affordably, ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹50 lakh, ensuring dignified living for economically weaker sections.

These announcements reflect the state’s push toward smart, inclusive, and sustainable urban development, aligning with Odisha’s long-term vision for modern governance and citizen welfare.