Kuldeep Narayan, Joint Secretary (Housing for All), Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, reviewed the progress of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Urban (PMAY-U) and PMAY-U 2.0 during his visit to Bhubaneswar on Friday.

Inspection of Key Housing Projects

During the visit, Kuldeep Narayan inspected three major housing project sites representing different verticals of PMAY-U.

His first stop was the Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) project at Buddha Vihar, Chandrasekharpur, where he reviewed the progress of housing units aimed at providing affordable and quality living spaces to urban beneficiaries.

He then visited Hare Krushna Nagar near Saileshree Vihar, where houses are being constructed under the Beneficiary-Led Construction (BLC) vertical. Interacting with residents, he appreciated the state’s efforts in enabling individual house construction and ensuring timely delivery.

Inclusive Housing Model at Pragati Bihar

A key highlight of the visit was the Pragati Bihar Slum redevelopment project under PMAY-U 2.0. The initiative stands out as an inclusive housing model, with 44 houses sanctioned—34 of them allotted to members of the transgender community.

The project is being developed with technical support from noted architect Ashok B. Lall in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Officials said the project focuses on sustainable, climate-responsive, and energy-efficient housing, incorporating thermally comfortable designs, cost-effective construction techniques, rooftop solar systems, and energy-efficient appliances.

Kuldeep Narayan termed the initiative a progressive step toward inclusive and environmentally sustainable urban development.

Review Meeting with State Officials

Following the field visits, a comprehensive review meeting was held at Kharvela Bhavan. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Housing & Urban Development, Usha Padhee, along with senior officials from the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) and Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Discussions focused on the overall progress of PMAY-U and PMAY-U 2.0 in Odisha, including achievements, challenges, and areas needing attention.

Focus on Timely Completion and Quality

Kuldeep Narayan emphasized the importance of timely project completion, maintaining construction quality, and ensuring beneficiary satisfaction. He also provided guidance on strengthening implementation and addressing bottlenecks.

Push for Innovation and Inclusive Urban Growth

Strategic discussions highlighted the need for policy interventions, innovation, and sustainable practices for effective rollout of PMAY-U 2.0. Officials stressed that inclusivity and climate-resilient infrastructure will be key to achieving the vision of “Housing for All.”

Commitment to ‘Housing for All’

The visit reaffirmed the commitment of both the Central and State Governments to accelerate urban housing initiatives and ensure dignified living conditions for all sections of society.