Odisha Government Addresses Housing Shortage with New Quarter Construction Plans
In a significant disclosure in the Odisha Legislative Assembly on Monday, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted a pressing issue regarding government housing in the state capital. He stated that there are currently 199 government quarters lying vacant in Bhubaneswar, even as the administration plans to construct nearly 2,000 additional units to address the growing demand for accommodation among government employees and other eligible individuals.
Details of Vacant Quarters and New Construction Projects
The Chief Minister provided a detailed breakdown of the vacant quarters in response to a query raised by MLA Rama Chandra Kadam. According to Majhi, the highest number of vacant quarters is in Unit VIII, with 37 units unoccupied, followed by 25 in Unit IX, 16 in Unit II, and 15 in Unit I. This revelation underscores the need for efficient allocation and management of existing housing resources.
To tackle the housing shortage, the government has initiated several construction projects. Majhi announced that 132 Type 2 quarters are being built at Unit VIII, along with 170 Type 4 quarters at Unit IV. Additionally, 84 multi-storey Type IV quarters are under construction at the Old AG Colony in Bhubaneswar. These efforts aim to provide modern and adequate housing facilities for government personnel.
Major Redevelopment Plan in Unit II Area
In a bold move to upgrade housing infrastructure, the government is planning a large-scale redevelopment project in the Unit II area. Majhi explained that 410 old government quarters will be demolished to make way for 1,512 new multi-storey quarters. This ambitious plan, which is being implemented by the General Administration Department, is expected to significantly increase the housing stock and improve living conditions for residents.
Transparency in Allotment Process
Chief Minister Majhi emphasized the government's commitment to transparency in the allotment of government quarters. He noted that Bhubaneswar has Type 1 to 8 quarters, while Cuttack has Type 4 to 8 quarters, all managed by the General Administration and Public Grievance Department. To ensure a fair and efficient process, the government has introduced the Quarter Management System 2.0. This digital platform allocates quarters based on seniority and eligibility, making the system more accountable and reducing delays.
Majhi reiterated that the allotment of government quarters is an ongoing process, designed to meet the evolving needs of government employees and other qualified individuals. The implementation of the Quarter Management System 2.0 is a key step towards modernizing housing administration and ensuring that resources are utilized effectively.
