Bhubaneswar, Oct 7 (UDN): In a festive-season relief for Puja committees, the Odisha government has announced a waiver of ground rent for temporary Puja pandals set up at public places within the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) area.

 Representational Image 

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced that Puja committees will not be required to pay ground rent for organising a range of religious and cultural events during the upcoming festive season.

The waiver will cover Durga Puja, Laxmi Puja, Kali Puja, Ravan Podi, Bhasani Utsav and associated cultural programmes organised at public places within the BMC jurisdiction.

Waiver to Remain in Force Till November 18

According to government sources, the ground-rent waiver will be applicable from October 17 to November 18, covering the major festive activities during the period.

The decision is aimed at easing the financial burden on Puja committees and recognising the wider social, cultural and community significance of the festivals, which draw large gatherings across Bhubaneswar.

CM Appeals for Safe and Eco-Friendly Celebrations

While announcing the relief, Chief Minister Majhi urged Puja committees to ensure that celebrations are conducted in a peaceful, disciplined and environmentally responsible manner.

Committees have been encouraged to maintain public order, cooperate with the administration and ensure that festivities do not cause unnecessary inconvenience to residents or visitors.

The government’s decision is expected to provide relief to numerous Puja committees preparing for the festive season and further support community-led celebrations across the state capital.