TV
In a push towards strengthening public higher education infrastructure, the Odisha government granted Berhampur University Rs 2.2 crore for the construction of the boundary wall of its boys’ hostel.
The sanction, made earlier this week, was to enhance security after an area was left exposed following a significant land handover for the Rangeilunda airport expansion, as per reports by The Times of India.
Funding Follows Land Relinquishment for Airport Development
Notably, the university had relinquished 25.672 acres of land to the state government last year. The land transfer, meant to facilitate the development of Rangeilunda airport in Ganjam district, involved clearing a heavily wooded area that had long acted as a natural barrier for the university’s boys’ hostel.
With trees being removed and no physical boundary in place, the hostel, home to nearly 200 students, has remained open and vulnerable, prompting complaints of stray animals entering from the rear side.
University authorities had urged the government for assistance, citing safety concerns and disruption to hostel life.
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Partial Allocation Against Larger Demands
Although the university had reportedly sought Rs 8.71 crore for a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade, including over 1 km of compound wall, a drainage system, and a security guard room, the current allocation covers only the outer portion of the boundary wall.
The Commerce and Transport Department communicated administrative approval for the amount through the Directorate of Civil Aviation in Bhubaneswar. The university has expressed its intention to continue requesting funds for completing the remaining infrastructure work in other hostel blocks.
Recent Keonjhar Land Grant
This funding comes days after the state government granted 40.19 acres of land to Dharanidhar University in Keonjhar, waiving dues worth Rs 140.71 crore. The move, approved by the Chief Minister’s cabinet, supports the university’s expansion across four villages, with plans to set up two major campuses.
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Unlike the monetary assistance to Berhampur University, the Keonjhar land grant was a cost-free transfer, exempting both one-time and annual land charges.
