Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday presented its Rs1,050 crore draft budget for the 2026‑27 financial year at the 38th general council meeting. The budget includes Rs300 crore from BMC’s own revenue and Rs750 crore from government grants.
Mayor Sulochana Das presided over the meeting, where councillors approved measures aimed at strengthening city sanitation, waste management, and public health. The budget focuses on improving cleanliness in public areas and boosting civic infrastructure.
The council also passed a key decision to strictly enforce the ban on gutkha (chewing tobacco). Any sale at BMC vending zones or OMFED booths will face strict penalties. Civic authorities will intensify enforcement across the city to stop illegal sales, according to a post on X by BMC.
Officials confirmed that gutkha-related hoardings will be removed, and those installing advertisements will face penalties. These steps aim to improve public health and reduce tobacco consumption.
Mayor Das emphasized the need to strengthen the BMC’s internal revenue systems and urged officials to ensure the timely collection of own-source funds. The budget also plans for the construction of new ward offices in all city wards by the end of next year.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to sanitation, public well-being, and civic development. Officials said the administration will continue programmes to improve cleanliness in markets, streets, and parks across Bhubaneswar.
