Puri/Bhubaneswar: The Housing & Urban Development (H&UD) Department of the Odisha Government on Wednesday organized the State-Level Urban Public Relations and Citizen Participation Programme at the Town Hall of Puri Municipal Corporation, highlighting the State’s urban development achievements and strengthening citizen engagement in governance.

The event was attended by Odisha Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, who launched the department’s special publication, “Vikashara Dhara, Odisha Sara” (Double Growth in Two Years), documenting the progress made across Odisha’s urban sector over the past two years.

The publication showcases key initiatives and achievements in areas such as urban infrastructure, sanitation, drinking water supply, affordable housing, urban mobility, citizen-centric services, and social welfare programmes. It provides an overview of the government’s efforts to develop inclusive, resilient, and future-ready urban centres across the state.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mahapatra stressed the importance of effective public communication and citizen participation in driving sustainable urban development. He said that meaningful urban transformation can only be achieved when citizens actively engage in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of development projects.

The Minister highlighted the government's commitment to improving the quality of life in urban areas through better infrastructure, enhanced service delivery, and people-centric governance initiatives.

The programme was attended by senior officials of the Housing & Urban Development Department, representatives of urban local bodies, elected representatives, and citizens from different parts of the state.

Among those present were Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department; Arindam Dakua, Director, Municipal Administration; and Sneha Orugula, Commissioner of Puri Municipal Corporation.

The event served as a platform to share the department’s achievements, gather public feedback, and encourage greater citizen involvement in Odisha’s urban development journey.