3 yrs on, Berhampur Municipal Corporation (BMC) still to achieve development targets

BERHAMPUR: Though the Berhamapur Municipal Corporation (BMC) has completed three years on December 31 last, the civic body is still to achieve its development objectives. Lack of adequate space and fund has been emerging as the prime obstacle for the city’s development. The BMC is spread over an area of 80 sq km and its total population stands at around 5 lakh while the population of Greater Berhampur has touched the 7 lakh mark. The city also has got its mayor, deputy mayor and corporators. However, as the council meetings are held irregularly, no new proposal has been taken up for discussion in recent times. Further, with the Panchayat elections slated to be held in February, it is certain the council meetings are not going to be held at least for next two months. An improved sewage is proposed in the city development plan for implementation. But due to lack of adequate Governmental fund, the project has not been finished, informed Berhampur Development Authority (BDA) officials. Due to lack of space, the sewage and drainage system inside the city cannot be built. There is also a proposal to take it up on the outskirts of the city with the help of an international organisation. Although 26 villages are supposed to be added with the corporation for its extension, yet the fact is not officially declared. Earlier, Ganjam Bikas Mancha had demanded before the local administration and the BDA for the inclusion of the 26 villages in the corporation prior to the Panchayat elections.

Source: The Pioneer