Bhubaneswar, April 18: Kuldeep Narayan, Joint Secretary, (Housing for All) in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), visited Bhubaneswar on Saturday to review the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Urban (PMAY-U) and PMAY-U 2.0 in Odisha.During his visit, Narayan inspected three significant project sites in the city, showcasing different verticals and innovative approaches under the flagship housing scheme.His first visit was to the Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) project, Buddha Vihar at Chandrasekharpur, where he reviewed the progress of housing units being developed to provide affordable and quality living spaces to urban beneficiaries.He then visited Hare Krushna Nagar, near Saileshree Vihar, where houses are being provided to beneficiaries under the Beneficiary-Led Construction (BLC) vertical of PMAY-U. Interacting with beneficiaries, Narayan appreciated the efforts made by the state in facilitating individual house construction and ensuring timely delivery.The third site, Pragati Bihar Slum, stood out as a unique and inclusive housing initiative under the BLC vertical of PMAY-U 2.0. A total of 44 houses have been sanctioned here, of which 34 beneficiaries belong to the transgender community. The project is being developed as a model inclusive housing cluster with technical support from noted architect Ashok B. Lall, in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).This pilot initiative aims to demonstrate sustainable, climate-responsive, and energy-efficient housing solutions. The project incorporates thermally comfortable designs, innovative and cost-effective construction techniques using sustainable materials, as well as rooftop solar systems and energy-efficient appliances.Narayan appreciated the state’s efforts in promoting inclusive and environmentally sustainable housing, terming it a progressive step towards equitable urban development.Following the site visits, he held a comprehensive review meeting at Kharvela Bhavan with the Additional Chief Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department, Usha Padhee along with senior officials from the department, Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), and Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC).The meeting focused on the overall progress of PMAY-U and PMAY-U 2.0 in the state, covering key achievements, challenges, and areas requiring attention. Narayan provided valuable guidance to further strengthen implementation, emphasizing timely completion of projects, quality assurance, and enhanced beneficiary satisfaction.Strategic discussions were also held on policy interventions and reform measures necessary for effective rollout of PMAY-U 2.0. The deliberations underscored the importance of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity in achieving the vision of “Housing for All.”The visit reaffirmed the commitment of both the Central and State Governments to accelerate urban housing initiatives and ensure dignified living conditions for all sections of society.
Odisha: Union Urban Affairs Joint Secretary visits key housing projects in Bhubaneswar
