Boudh, Odisha: Boudh Collector Bibhuti Bhushan Nayak conducted a field-level inspection of several ongoing development and plantation initiatives in Harabhanga Block, taking stock of the progress and maintenance of projects being implemented across different villages.

The inspection followed a joint public grievance hearing organised in Harabhanga Block, where local residents had raised various issues and development-related demands. During the subsequent field visit, the Collector was accompanied by Chief Development Officer Prabhas Chandra Dandasena, Harabhanga Block Development Officer Karna Suna and officials from several departments.

The inspection began at Jamupadar village under Karanjakata Gram Panchayat. The Collector reviewed plantation activities being undertaken as part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign and work associated with the VB-G RAM G initiative. Officials briefed him on the plantation activities and the condition of the sites.

Nayak emphasised that plantation drives should not end with the planting of saplings. He instructed the concerned Sarpanches and departmental personnel to ensure regular watering, protection and maintenance of the trees so that the plantations can develop into healthy and sustainable green cover.

The Collector subsequently visited Yajpur village under Purunakatak Gram Panchayat, where he examined another plantation site. The focus of the inspection was on the progress of the work as well as the arrangements being made for the continued care of the planted trees.

During the field programme, Chief Development Officer Prabhas Chandra Dandasena also visited Sukhapal Bhuteswar Temple under Lunibahal Gram Panchayat. He inspected plantation activities undertaken within and around the temple premises and reviewed the condition of the surrounding area.

The inspection also addressed a local demand concerning recreational infrastructure. Young residents of Sampoch village had requested the administration to establish a playground in the area. Following the request, the CDO visited the proposed location to assess the site. He informed the local youths that appropriate administrative steps would be taken to facilitate development of the playground at the earliest possible stage.

The visiting team also examined the Sampoch Gram Panchayat pond and reviewed its existing condition. In addition, officials inspected the plantation area developed under the VB-G RAM G scheme to assess the progress and upkeep of the work.

The field inspection brought together district and block-level officials, engineers and representatives of various line departments. District Information and Public Relations Officer Bidyapati Panda, Purunakatak Sarpanch Ashok Kumar Sethi and other departmental personnel also participated in the programme.

The Collector’s field visit highlighted the administration’s focus on monitoring development works at the ground level, responding to community demands and ensuring that completed and ongoing projects receive proper maintenance. Particular attention was given to the long-term survival of plantation efforts and the timely development of community infrastructure such as playgrounds.

The inspection also provided officials with an opportunity to assess local development requirements directly and identify areas where follow-up action may be necessary.