BHUBANESWAR/PURI: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday approved the appointment of five IAS probationers to expedite implementation of development projects worth Rs 500 crore as part of the State Government’s efforts to transform Puri into a world heritage city. The 2018 batch probationers have been posted at Puri to assist Collector Balwant Singh in executing the projects.
The IAS probationers are Suryavanshi Mayur Vikash, Kirtivashan V, Shubhankar Mohapatra, J Sonal and Bhuvnesh Devdas Patil. Chief advisor to the Chief Minister’s Office, R Balkrishanan and Secretary to Chief Minister’s-Transformation and Initiatives VK Pandian enlightened the new officers on various projects to be undertaken in the Pilgrim Town.
Days after the district administration’s eviction drive around Jagannath Temple, the Chief Minister had announced Rs500 crore mega plan to develop Puri into a world heritage city. The special package covers expenses of rehabilitation, development of multi-lane roads, bridges, parking lots and revival of rivers and lakes.
Earlier, the State Government had announced an Rs 265-crore plan for infrastructure development under Augmentation of Basic Amenities and Development of Heritage and Architecture (ABADHA) scheme.
Puri locals welcomed the appointments stating that it was in the interest of the town.
Advocates Sankarshan Biswal and Binayak Rath said the decision reflects the Chief Minister’s interest to complete the projects within two years as announced by him. Rajkishore Das, a hotelier, said the intent of CM is reflected by his acts. Appointment of additional officers would be helpful in moving the projects faster through effective monitoring. At present, three senior IAS officers and a Development Commissioner are looking after the work.
Slum-dwellers said during a visit to the town after cyclone Fani, the Chief Minister had assured of transforming the town into an international heritage place and he has kept his word.