No Road Cutting Work Without Permission: BMC Warns Agencies

Bhubaneswar, July 3:The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken a decisive step towards improving citizens' transportation and safeguarding city infrastructure by introducing a new regulation on road cutting under its jurisdiction.

A coordination meeting chaired by BMC Commissioner, Vijay Amruta Kulange, was held last night at Ekamra Hall to address the issue of indiscriminate road cutting and devise a better solution for the city's development.

The BMC has observed that various agencies, especially telephone companies, have been engaging in road cutting to install poles, towers, and underground cables, leading to frequent disruptions and inconveniences for the residents.

To rectify this situation and maintain a systematic approach to infrastructure development, BMC has mandated that no agency can perform road cutting under BMC jurisdiction without prior permission.

Henceforth, all companies requiring road cutting for their projects must submit a written request to BMC, detailing the necessity of such action. BMC will conduct a field visit with its departmental engineer to assess the proposed work's relevance and impact on the city's infrastructure. Subsequently, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) will be granted if the project aligns with the BMC's developmental goals.

To streamline the permission process, BMC has introduced the "Bhubaneswar.Me" app, through which agencies can apply for the required permit. The BMC authorities will promptly analyze the applications, ensuring a swift response to streamline project implementation.

In instances where the road belongs to BMC, the corporation will issue the NOC directly. However, if the road falls under the Public Works Department's (PWD) jurisdiction, BMC will forward the request to the concerned department.

The agency seeking road cutting permission is responsible for restoring the road to its original condition post-completion of the project, ensuring no harm to roadways, footpaths, landscaping, or any other constructions.

Upon receiving the NOC, the agency is required to commence work within seven days and provide an estimated time for project completion. BMC emphasizes adherence to the stipulated timeframe to minimize disruptions to the city's transportation and amenities.

To maintain cleanliness and prevent obstruction, agencies must not leave construction materials or equipment on the road once the work is completed. If any agency needs to store materials under BMC jurisdiction, they must seek explicit permission from BMC and ensure proper supervision during the storage period.

The coordination meeting saw the participation of key stakeholders, including Additional Commissioner, Suryavanshi Mayur Vikash, City Engineer Arun Kumar Nayak, and officials from PWD department, WATCO, BSNL, Airtel, Jio, Gel, Power Grid, OPTCL, among others. Their presence highlights the collective commitment to effective infrastructure development and responsible road cutting practices within BMC's jurisdiction.