Bhubaneswar: Chief Secretary Anu Garg chaired a high-level preparatory meeting, Thursday, to review arrangements for the 78th Capital Foundation Day of Bhubaneswar and ensure the two-day celebration (April 13 and 14) is held with grandeur and wide public participation. Garg directed all departments and associated organisations to coordinate effectively for the smooth conduct of the festivities. While April 13 celebrations will be organised independently, the April 14 programme will be aligned with the state government’s ‘Odia Pakhya’ observances.
Presenting the programme outline, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Chanchal Rana said the event aims to showcase the City’s heritage, culture and development journey while making the occasion memorable for citizens. Floral tributes will be offered at the Capital Foundation Stone plaque at PMG Square on the morning of April 13, followed by hoisting of the foundation day flag by the chief guest, he said. “A civil parade will be organised from Rabindra Mandap to Jayadev Bhawan.
A photo exhibition depicting the capital city’s history and achievements will also be arranged at Jayadev Bhawan by the Information and Public Relations department,” he added. Keeping the summer heat in mind, Garg directed that morning programmes conclude early and asked officials to ensure adequate drinking water, ORS, and essential facilities for participating students.
In the evening, the ‘Rajdhani Gaurav Samman’ ceremony, prize distribution for competition winners and cultural performances will be organised by the Odia Language, Literature and Culture department at Utkal Mandap, continuing in coordination with ‘Odia Pakhya’ celebrations the following day.
The Khurda district administration, police, Fire services, health authorities, banks, and various government and private institutions will participate in the programme. The Bhubaneswar Development Authority will undertake cleaning, beautification, floral decoration and restoration of the fountain near the foundation plaque. Decorative gateways, illumination from AG Square to Rabindra Mandap, and lighting of major government and commercial establishments across the city have also been proposed.
Authorities have also been directed to ensure transport arrangements for students, along with proper traffic management, security, emergency services and extensive media coverage of the events. Senior officials from departments such as Development, Sports, Education, Tourism, Works and Urban Development, along with members of the Capital Foundation Day Celebration Committee, attended the meeting and shared suggestions for the smooth conduct of the celebrations.
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