Keonjhar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday virtually launched development projects worth more than Rs 1,330 crore in Keonjhar district. The initiative included laying foundation stones for 62 projects valued at Rs 704.38 crore and inaugurating 24 completed ones built at an estimated cost of Rs 250.95 crore. Additionally, he announced a package of 101 new projects for the district worth Rs 374.91 crore.
CM's Vision for Keonjhar
Addressing a public meeting, the chief minister stated that development in Keonjhar has accelerated after years of neglect. “Now Keonjhar will be developed into one of the country’s most industrially prosperous districts. The process for setting up a mega steel plant in the district is in the final stage and its foundation stone will be laid soon,” he said.
Smart Public Transport Launch
The CM also launched the much-awaited smart public transport service with 25 e-buses for Keonjhar town and inaugurated the ‘Aam Bus’ depot built at a cost of Rs 17 crore. He highlighted that the e-bus service will help cut carbon emissions by around 330 to 390 tonnes annually. The service will be expanded to other towns, with about Rs 238 crore earmarked for maintenance.
He said people from lower and middle-income groups can travel in fully air-conditioned buses for a fare of Rs 5. Each bus is equipped with CCTV cameras, panic buttons and GPS to enhance passenger safety, especially for women.
Green Mobility Initiative
Calling it a step towards “green mobility”, the CM said Odisha aims to emerge as a leading state in the sector. The next decade will be crucial for the state’s growth, he said, adding that Keonjhar will play a key role in achieving a prosperous Odisha by 2036.
District planning committee chairman Fakir Mohan Naik, MP Anant Naik, Patna MLA Akhil Chandra Naik, special development council chairperson Mamita Naik and collector Vishal Singh were present at the function.
