Dikhyaa Mohanty 
Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, the minister of housing and urban development for Odisha, instructed the relevant personnel on Friday to maintain the statues of notable individuals placed in public parks created in the state’s several municipalities. During a discussion with department staff regarding the present state of parks, the Minister stated that statues of notable individuals and historical figures must be kept with dignity and proper respect. Negligence in this work amounts to disdain for public sentiment and cultural heritage.
The Minister has also instructed the department to create a thorough, time-bound action plan for the beautification, modification, and holistic improvement of parks throughout all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in Odisha, expanding the initiative beyond Bhubaneswar and Cuttack to encompass the entire state in an effort to improve urban liveability and protect public assets. Mahapatra also mentioned his recent visit to Bhubaneswar’s Indira Gandhi (IG) Park and expressed his profound displeasure with its state.
He expressed grave worry over obvious neglect, inadequate upkeep, and structural degradation, pointing out that comparable problems still exist in a number of urban parks. Mahapatra emphasized that parks are important social, environmental, and cultural resources that reflect the general caliber of urban government and greatly improve the health and well-being of residents. They are not only places for recreation.
Taking a harsh stance on administrative errors, he issued a warning that individuals and agencies found guilty of poor maintenance or neglect of their duties would face severe disciplinary action. He stated unequivocally that when flaws are found, responsibility would be corrected. The Minister additionally instructed to send clear and urgent directions to all ULBs, establishing roles, deadlines and quality criteria for park rejuvenation.
