Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi visited Sambalpur today, marking a significant milestone in the district’s development journey by inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for 25 key infrastructure projects valued at approximately Rs 948 crore.
Among these, 14 completed projects worth over Rs 57 crore were officially inaugurated, while foundation stones were laid for 11 upcoming initiatives estimated at over Rs 890 crore.
The projects span a wide range of sectors aimed at enhancing the region’s growth, including road and bridge construction, health infrastructure upgrades, warehouses, Atal bus stands, student hostels, tourism development, and drinking water facilities. These initiatives are expected to boost connectivity, healthcare access, and economic opportunities for the residents of Sambalpur district.
In his address during the event, CM Majhi emphasised the government’s commitment to balanced development and good governance. “Sambalpur’s progress is an integral part of our vision for equitable growth and effective administration,” he stated. He highlighted how these projects will add a new chapter to the district’s development narrative, fostering a prosperous Odisha. The CM also noted that the beautiful city of Sambalpur will become even more vibrant once these developments are completed, enhancing its aesthetic and functional appeal.
A major highlight is the ongoing development of the iconic Maa Samaleswari Temple, a prominent pilgrimage site, with an investment of Rs 316 crore. The project is being executed in two phases: The first phase includes the construction of a temple corridor, development of Gopaljiu Math, a lamp house, parking facilities, and riverfront enhancements. The second phase will feature devotee accommodations, a lake zone, shops, food parks, additional parking, and improved access roads.
Additionally, the Mahanadi Riverfront Development project, funded at Rs 160 crore, will beautify the riverbanks from Mandlia to Chaunrpur. This includes the creation of parks, gyms, selfie points, bathing ghats, aarti ghats, shopping complexes, toilets, and parking areas, further strengthening the district’s tourism potential.
Reflecting on the state’s rapid industrialisation, CM Majhi pointed out that industrial growth was previously limited to a few pockets in Odisha. “Our government is determined to establish industries across all 30 districts,” he said, announcing plans for investments exceeding Rs 1.8 lakh crore in the coming days. He added that over the past one-and-a-half years, development in Odisha has accelerated, with focused efforts in Sambalpur to provide essential services like education, health, infrastructure, and transportation.
The CM underscored changes in governance, prioritising public welfare. “Our administration is not confined to air-conditioned offices in Bhubaneswar. We listen to public grievances in Sambalpur and act swiftly, bringing us closer to the people,” he remarked. He stressed that good governance revolves around the people, and the government is open to refining policies for greater public benefit.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, in his speech, affirmed the state government’s dedication to propelling Sambalpur towards progress, with visible results benefiting every citizen. Panchayati Raj, Drinking Water, and Rural Development Minister Rabi Narayan Naik highlighted the “double engine” government’s commitment to double development, extending from districts to villages.
The event was attended by Sambalpur MLA Jayanarayan Mishra, former MLA Nauri Naik, RDC Ramchandra Yadav, IG Police Himanshu Lal, and other dignitaries. District Collector Siddheswar Baliram Bondar delivered the welcome address, while Sambalpur Municipal Corporation Commissioner Rehan Khatri proposed the vote of thanks.
Looking ahead, the Chief Minister is scheduled to inaugurate two more projects in the district tomorrow. These include the newly constructed Trauma Care Unit, OPD Building, and CSSD Building at the District Headquarters Hospital, along with laying the foundation for a 24-hour drinking water supply system in Sambalpur city.
These developments underscore the Odisha government’s push towards comprehensive growth, ensuring that even the most marginalised communities receive basic amenities and opportunities for advancement.
