In a significant push towards transforming Sonepur into a beacon of progress, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi visited the district today to inaugurate and lay the foundation for 56 public welfare projects valued at over Rs 323 crore.
The ambitious initiative, aimed at bolstering infrastructure, irrigation, healthcare, and community development, underscores the state government’s commitment to uplifting one of Odisha’s culturally and historically rich regions.
During the visit, CM Majhi dedicated 11 completed projects worth Rs 80 crore to the public and laid the foundation for 45 new projects estimated at Rs 244 crore. These projects span critical sectors such as road construction, irrigation, bridge development, healthcare facilities, mega lift irrigation schemes, and hostel infrastructure, promising to enhance connectivity, agricultural productivity, and quality of life for Sonepur residents.
A highlight of the visit was the Chief Minister’s announcement of constructing four in-stream storage (ISS) structures along the Mahanadi River and its tributaries. These structures will be built at Godhaneswar and Khairamal in Birmaharajpur block, Harihar Jor in Ulunda, and Surubali in Birmaharajpur. These projects are expected to revolutionise irrigation in the region, ensuring water availability for farmers and boosting agricultural output. “We will harness the rivers of Subarnapur for the benefit of its people,” CM Majhi declared, emphasising sustainable development.
Addressing a large gathering of Sonepur residents, CM Majhi painted a vivid picture of the district’s historical and cultural significance. “Subarnapur has been a cornerstone of Odisha’s political and cultural landscape since ancient times,” he said. “It is the land of Santa Kabi Bhima Bhoi, a hub of spiritual thought, literature, and art. Its weaving and handicraft traditions have brought pride to Odisha.”
The Chief Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to fulfilling promises, noting that within a year, 11 out of 21 pledged initiatives have been implemented. He highlighted proactive measures, such as including unseasonal rainfall damages in the relief code to support farmers, a historic move to address agricultural losses. “Our government says what it does and does what it says,” he asserted, urging residents to propose ideas for further development. “I assure you full support. No obstacle will hinder Subarnapur’s progress,” he added, vowing to make the district “shine like gold” and position it as Odisha’s top district.
During the event, CM Majhi distributed work orders and assistance to beneficiaries of various state schemes, reinforcing the government’s focus on inclusive growth. The projects are expected to create jobs, improve infrastructure, and enhance access to essential services, particularly in rural areas.
Bolangir MP Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deo, who attended the event, praised the Chief Minister’s leadership and the central government’s support for Odisha’s development. “Under the guidance of the Honourable Prime Minister, a new era of progress has begun in Odisha,” she said. “CM Majhi’s efforts are bringing backwards regions to the forefront, with full cooperation from the central government for highways and railway development.”
The program saw participation from key dignitaries, including Sonepur MLA Niranjan Pujari, Kantamal MLA Kahnai Dang, Kantabanji MLA Laxman Bag, and Birmaharajpur MLA Raghunath Jagdala, who delivered the welcome address. Sonepur Collector Anya Das offered the vote of thanks.
