Rayagada/Gunupur/Paralakhemundi: Even as the Centre has scrapped the KBK project meant for the development of Koraput, Bolangir and Kalahandi districts, the state government would continue to grant funds for the purpose, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said while addressing a rally at Gunupur in Rayagada Tuesday.
His government has taken a number of measures to develop infrastructure in rural areas and for the development of women, Patnaik said on the occasion and added that the government would continue to promote women empowerment in future.
The Chief Minister went on to inaugurate a slew of projects and laid the foundation stones for many during his one-day whirlwind tour to Rayagada and Gajapati districts.
While he inaugurated the 720-ft-long Gumuda bridge, built at the cost of `51 crore at Gunupur, 31 other projects were unveiled at the meeting site. Similarly, Patnaik laid foundation stones for 28 new projects on the occasion.
Apart from Rajya Sabha MP N Bhaskar Rao, MLA Trinath Gamang, ZP chairperson Sujata Mandangi and additional district magistrate Laxmikanta Behera were present among others at the meeting.
Later in the day, Patnaik laid the foundation stones for several development projects in Gumma and Mohana blocks of Gajapati district after ending his programme in Rayagada. After distributing various equipment and allowances among beneficiaries of several schemes, the Chief Minister addressed a gathering at Christiansahi playground in Gumma block. Patnaik informed the people about the welfare projects launched by BJD government as well as their successful implementations.
Party workers welcomed Patnaik at SSD High School playground in Mohana block after he landed there in a helicopter. After briefing the public about the welfare measures taken by the government, Patnaik left for Bhubaneswar.
Earlier in the day, police arrested several workers of BJP and Congress after they distributed leaflets over their demands ahead of the CM’s visit. They were released in the afternoon, it was learnt.
Police and district administrations of both the districts made elaborate security arrangements for the CM’s programme. PNN
