Bhubaneswar Drives Affordable Housing: 116 Families Receive Homes Under AHP Initiatives
Bhubaneswar: In a significant move to enhance urban living standards and address the housing needs of slum dwellers, Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister for Housing & Urban Development, Public Enterprises, and Chairman of the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), distributed allotment letters to 116 beneficiaries under the Affordable Housing Project (AHP). The ceremony took place at the IDCOL Auditorium, reflecting the government’s ongoing commitment to creating inclusive housing solutions for economically weaker sections of society.
The allotments were part of three key projects: 47 houses were handed over under Chandrasekharpur AHP, 36 under Nilamadhab Awas AHP, and 28 under the Barunei Enclave AHP in Subudhipur. During his address, Dr. Mahapatra underscored the transformative potential of these projects. He stated, “Owning a house in the capital city is a dream for many. Through BDA’s affordable housing schemes, we aim not only to provide shelter but also to ensure a better quality of life with proper infrastructure and amenities. These efforts are part of our broader vision for a more inclusive and equitable urban development framework.”
The allotment process was conducted through a transparent lottery system, ensuring fairness and accountability. An Independent Observer was present to oversee the proceedings, further reinforcing the credibility of the allocation process. This emphasis on transparency and fairness reflects the government’s determination to create a robust framework for housing allocation, which prioritizes the needs of the most vulnerable.
Expanding Affordable Housing Across Bhubaneswar
The Affordable Housing Project is not limited to the current allotments. Plans are underway to expand housing initiatives across the city to address the growing demand for affordable homes. One of the largest ongoing projects is in Chandrasekharpur Mauja, where 2,600 houses are being developed over 20 acres of land. Of these, 820 houses have already been completed, and 737 have been allotted to beneficiaries. The remaining 1,863 houses are scheduled to be distributed in subsequent phases, showcasing a phased approach to urban housing development.
Another major project, Nilamadhab Awas, is being developed near Care Hospital on an 8.18-decimal plot. The project involves the construction of 1,200 houses, of which 960 have been completed. To date, 543 houses have been allotted, and the remaining 657 will be distributed in upcoming phases. This project stands out for its strategic location, ensuring that beneficiaries can access essential services and amenities.
At Barunei Enclave in Subudhipur, all 342 planned houses have already been constructed. Of these, 28 were handed over during the recent event, with the rest set to be distributed to eligible beneficiaries.
Additionally, redevelopment efforts are underway at Keshari Residency in Satyanagar, a project aimed at replacing slum areas with modern housing facilities. Spread over 10 acres, the project plans to deliver 1,300 houses. So far, 560 houses have been completed, and 454 families have received their allotments. The remaining 846 houses are in various stages of completion and will be allocated in future phases.
Commitment to Inclusive Urban Development
The government’s efforts extend beyond providing housing. Each project under the Affordable Housing Scheme is designed to offer residents access to proper infrastructure and basic amenities, such as water supply, sanitation, and connectivity, to upgrade their quality of life. These projects align with Bhubaneswar’s vision to establish itself as a model urban center that caters to all socio-economic groups.
Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Vice-Chairman of BDA, delivered the welcome address at the event, emphasizing the significance of these housing projects in transforming urban living standards. Senior officials from BDA and dignitaries, including the Vigilance Officer of the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC), were also present, reflecting the multi-stakeholder approach toward addressing housing challenges.
Image source: Sambad English