Bhubaneswar, 1 September (H.S.): The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) marked its 43rd Foundation Day on Monday with the inauguration of a new park and playground at K9B in Kalinga Vihar. The facilities were inaugurated by Shri Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister for Housing & Urban Development and Public Enterprises and Chairman of BDA.
Spread over 2.3 acres, the project comprises a 1.36-acre park alongside a modern playground, developed at an estimated cost of ₹5.5 crore. Equipped with an open gym, yoga studio, walking track, toilets, changing rooms, sprinkler irrigation with an underground reservoir, and a secured compound wall, the new facilities are designed to serve as green and recreational hubs for residents.
BDA officials informed that 20 playgrounds are being developed across the city at a total cost of ₹98 crore, with 19 already nearing completion.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Bhubaneswar Mayor Smt. Sulochana Das, Bhubaneswar Ekamra MLA Shri Babu Singh, H&UD Principal Secretary Smt. Usha Padhee, and BDA Vice Chairman Shri N. Thirumala Naik.
Later in the evening, the Foundation Day programme was held at Jaydev Bhawan, where Minister Mahapatra graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Dignitaries including Mayor Das, MLA Singh, Vice Chairman Dr. Naik, BDA Secretary Shri Manas Ranjan Padhi, and BDA Employees’ Forum President Shri Samir Mohanty were present.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Mahapatra underscored the need for strategic urban planning to manage Bhubaneswar’s rapid growth. He called for greater collaboration between authorities and citizens to expand the city’s green cover, strengthen drainage and sewerage systems, and transform Bhubaneswar into a world-class city.
Mayor Das highlighted BDA’s role in fostering inclusivity and addressing challenges arising from climate change. MLA Singh urged a focus on housing initiatives for the homeless, while Vice Chairman Dr. Naik reaffirmed BDA’s commitment to sustainable and people-centric development. Employee representative Samir Mohanty reiterated demands for a pension scheme for BDA staff.
On the occasion, Minister Mahapatra also released BDA’s Annual Report. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Smt. Snigdharani Dhal, Additional Commissioner (Establishment), BDA.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
