Paperman Media (Bhubaneswar )- In a significant step towards inclusive urban development and the rehabilitation of leprosy-affected families, Housing & Urban Development and Public Enterprises Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra today laid the foundation stone for the Ramakrishna Adarsh Colony at Shanti Palli under Ward No. 41 of the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC).
The project envisages the construction of 55 two-storey dwelling units, which will provide permanent housing to 110 eligible beneficiaries. The initiative reflects the State Government's commitment to ensuring a life of dignity, security and social inclusion for vulnerable sections of society.
The foundation stone laying ceremony was attended by MLA Shri Ananta Narayan Jena, Mayor Smt. Sulochana Das, Deputy Mayor Smt. Manjulata Kanhar, BMC Commissioner and BDA Vice-Chairman Shri Chanchal Rana, Corporator Smt. Kabita Swain, along with senior officials of BMC, public representatives, beneficiaries and local residents.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said the project has been taken up in line with the Government's vision of providing safe and dignified housing to leprosy-affected families while facilitating their integration into the social mainstream. He appealed to citizens to extend wholehearted support to such initiatives that promote equality, compassion and inclusive development. He also expressed confidence that BMC would complete the project expeditiously and ensure timely allotment of houses to all eligible beneficiaries.
The Minister highlighted that BMC has already developed housing colonies for leprosy-affected families at Lingaraj and Gokhibaba, where beneficiaries are residing with dignity. Construction of the Gopabandhu Leprosy Colony is also in progress. These colonies have been equipped with essential amenities, including electricity, safe drinking water, fans and other basic facilities, all provided free of cost.
Mayor Smt. Sulochana Das reaffirmed BMC's commitment to providing all necessary civic amenities in the new colony to ensure a comfortable and dignified living environment for the beneficiaries.
BMC Commissioner Shri Chanchal Rana emphasised that the beneficiary selection process would be carried out with utmost transparency, ensuring that no eligible family is left out while preventing any ineligible person from availing the benefits.
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