5T Chairman Pandian Visits Bhadrak District
Bhubaneswar: Upon the directions of the Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik, Chairman of 5T and Nabin Odisha Shri V.K. Pandian undertook a visit to Bhadrak district today. Covering a distance of approximately 50 kilometers, including a stretch on a motorcycle, Shri Pandian traversed along the left embankment of the Baitarani River. The purpose of the visit was to assess the progress of the Baitarani Left Embankment Strengthening and Road Development Project, which has a total budget of Rs. 150.24 Crores. This project was initiated in response to feedback received from the local populace during a previous visit to Dhamnagar in December 2023.
The embankment strengthening endeavor aims to mitigate the impact of floods in the Bhandaripokhari, Dhamnagar, and Chandbali regions during periods of high water levels in the river Baitarani. Additionally, the construction of a concrete road from Biridi to Tintar Ghat atop the embankment is anticipated to reduce travel time by 2 hours, enhancing connectivity between Biridi, Tintar Ghat, Jajpur Medical College, and NH 16. This initiative is expected to benefit approximately 120,000 residents of Bhadrak District.
Furthermore, Shri Pandian assessed the progress of the Akhuapada and Kochila Instream Storage Structures along the Baitarani River, with a combined budget of Rs. 681 Crores. These projects are poised to provide irrigation facilities to an area spanning 81,200 acres, ensuring water availability for Rabi season cultivation and bolstering the fisheries sector in the region. The decision to undertake these projects was influenced by the grievances and demands expressed by the local populace during Shri Pandian’s previous visit to Bhadrak in June.
Throughout the journey, Shri Kartik Pandian was greeted by a large gathering of people who appreciated his hands-on approach and willingness to travel long distances, including by motorcycle, to personally inspect the ground realities. Public gatherings were held at Akhuapada Field and IGM College Field in Dhamnagar, where Shri Pandian engaged with the community.
During these interactions, Shri Pandian highlighted significant decisions taken by the Honorable Chief Minister, such as the increase in social security pensions across all categories by Rs. 500, benefiting approximately 5.8 million recipients. He also announced the enhancement of financial assistance under the MAMATA Yojana from Rs. 5000 to Rs. 10,000, aimed at improving nutrition and health outcomes for women and infants.
In a bid to support undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled in state universities, government and non-government aided colleges, including Sanskrit colleges and unaided institutions under the Higher Education Department, Shri Pandian unveiled the Nua-O Scholarships initiative. Under this scheme, male students will receive Rs. 9,000 annually, while female students will receive Rs. 10,000. Additionally, SC/ST and Nirman Shramik families’ eligible students will receive Rs. 10,000 (male) and Rs. 11,000 (female) per annum. Disbursement of scholarships for the current academic year will commence from February 26th, directly into the bank accounts of eligible students.
Shri Pandian also announced the introduction of bus services under the LaCCMI Scheme in every Gram Panchayat of Bhadrak District, offering a reduced fare of Rs. 5 for female passengers and students. During his interactions with the public, Shri Pandian diligently noted their grievances and assured them of swift resolution.
