Latest news with #SiddheshwarBaliramBondar


Hans India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
Tiranga bike rally in Odisha's Sambalpur ahead of I-Day to ignite national pride among citizens
In a vibrant display of patriotism, Odisha's Sambalpur district administration on Wednesday organised a 'Tiranga Bike Rally' to ignite national pride among citizens ahead of India's 79th Independence Day. Flagged off by Sambalpur Collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar at Kacheri Chhak, the rally traversed several key areas of the city before culminating near the historic Samaleswari Temple. The event aimed to spread the message of unity and patriotism as the nation gears up to mark another year of freedom. Speaking to IANS, Collector Bondar said, 'This initiative seeks to foster a deep sense of national pride among citizens as we approach our 79th Independence Day. Through such events, we aim to remind people of the values our country stands for.' The rally saw enthusiastic participation from personnel of the police, excise, and fire services departments, as well as volunteers from various civic organisations. Sambalpur Municipal Corporation Commissioner and other senior officials were also present, adding to the fervour of the occasion. India will celebrate its 79th Independence Day on August 15, 2025. As tradition dictates, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi, followed by the Guard of Honour and the singing of the National Anthem. The significance of this day dates back to August 15, 1947, when India finally broke free from over two centuries of British colonial rule. On that historic midnight, the nation's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, delivered his iconic 'Tryst with Destiny' speech, ushering in a new era of sovereignty. The roots of British dominance trace back to 1619, when the East India Company first established itself in Surat. Following their decisive victory in the Battle of Plassey in 1757, the Company gradually assumed control over the Indian subcontinent, laying the foundation for imperial rule. Independence Day stands not just as a tribute to freedom fighters but as a celebration of India's journey as a democratic republic. It serves as a reminder of the nation's commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity -- values enshrined in the Constitution.


New Indian Express
10-07-2025
- General
- New Indian Express
Glitches at treatment plant spark drinking water crisis in Sambalpur
SAMBALPUR: Sambalpur city is grappling with a severe drinking water crisis due to frequent technical glitches at Bareipali water treatment plant, leaving thousands of residents across several areas frustrated. The disruption, which is continuing for the past around five days, has caused major inconvenience to people amidst the monsoon rains. The crisis unfolded when a high-capacity transformer at the Bareipali plant caught fire last week, halting water supply to several key areas including Ainthapali, Budharaja, VSS Marg and Dhanupali. A new transformer was brought in from Bhubaneswar on July 4 and made operational. However, the situation worsened when lightning struck another transformer, leading to fresh disruptions. As a result, WATCO officials announced that water supply may remain affected for an indefinite period. Sources said residents of the affected areas have been left scrambling for drinking water, with many expressing frustration over the repeated failures and absence of alternative arrangements. The situation has sparked renewed discussions about the need for long-term improvements in the city's water infrastructure and emergency response capabilities. Amid the growing concerns, Sambalpur collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar visited the Bareipali plant sub-station to review the situation and instructed officials to work out a solution to restore water supply as quickly as possible. WATCO authorities including general manager Brahmeshwar Das assured of arranging water supply in a phased manner across the affected localities. In the meantime, efforts are being made to ensure at least minimal supply across different parts of the city. Das said, 'It is a technical issue and may take a few more days to resolve. However, the water supply has not been completely disrupted. We are ensuring phased supply to different areas for one to two hours daily, and the timing for each locality has been widely shared through the media to keep residents informed.' Sambalpur's existing water supply relies on eight treatment facilities including major plants at Bareipali (40 MLD), Mudipada (11 MLD), Hirakud (9 MLD), and three smaller units in Burla which have long struggled to keep pace with the city's growing population and rising demand. Sources said a Rs 55 crore pipeline replacement project and the proposed new treatment plants - one at Ainthapali with a capacity of 65 MLD and another near Sambalpur University with 35 MLD - are already in motion. Once operational, these plants will not only boost overall treatment capacity but also improve supply consistency and water quality, reducing the risk of service disruptions and waterborne diseases that have historically affected the city, particularly during the monsoon season.


New Indian Express
18-05-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
Abandoned 25-year-old HIV positive woman finds hope in Rajasthan rehab centre
SAMBALPUR: Abandoned by her family, a 25-year-old HIV-positive woman of Bhatli block was given a new lease on life through the collaborative efforts of Bargarh district administration and social organisation Parichaya. The woman was successfully rehabilitated at Apna Ghar Ashram in Rajasthan on Saturday. As per the report, the woman's troubles began when her husband disowned her after learning of her medical condition. Her brother initially brought her to VIMSAR, Burla about a month ago and admitted her for treatment. But he too, left her there. Some maternal relatives visited her occasionally and her brother eventually stopped responding to the calls. In the absence of a caregiver, her condition deteriorated. The hospital authorities, in their attempt to find support for her, contacted Parichaya. The organisation immediately took up the matter with collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar. The district administration explored multiple rehabilitation options and finally secured a place for the woman at Apna Ghar Ashram, a shelter run by Todi Foundation in Rajasthan. 'She reached there safely, and we left her at the centre on Saturday,' said Bipin Panda of Parichaya. Considering her health condition, she will receive appropriate care and treatment. 'Though her journey has been tragic, we believe this new beginning will bring her renewed hope,' he added.