Bhubaneswar: During a review meeting focused on assessing the progress of urban transformative initiatives in Odisha, Minister of Housing & Urban Development, Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, convened a session at the Odisha Urban Academy. This meeting aimed to evaluate the significant strides made in urban development, particularly in the realm of drinking water supply and urban infrastructure.

Dr. Mohapatra interacted with a team of senior officials led by G. Mathivathanan, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Housing & Urban Development Department. A key highlight of the discussion was Odisha’s pioneering efforts in the urban drinking water sector, particularly through the successful implementation of the Drink From Tap Mission. This initiative has set a national benchmark by ensuring that citizens have access to high-quality, potable water directly from the tap, significantly improving the urban water supply system.

G. Mathivathanan underscored the crucial role played by the Odisha Urban Academy in building the capacity of various stakeholders involved in urban development. He emphasized the Academy’s contributions as an institution of national importance, which has been instrumental in training and empowering officials and workers engaged in urban projects across the state.

The meeting also featured presentations and discussions on the broader impacts and future plans for urban development in Odisha. Officials elaborated on various initiatives and their outcomes, showcasing the state’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure and quality of life for its residents.

Sri PK Swain, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO), Sarada Panda, Director of the State Urban Development Agency (SUDA) and Additional Secretary in the Housing & Urban Development Department, Dr. Santanu Rath, Director of the Odisha Urban Academy (OUA)  and other senior officials present at the review meeting.