Bhubaneswar Municipal Corp (BMC) bans gutkha sale in OMFED booths

The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday presented a Rs 1,050 crore draft budget for the financial year 2026–27, with a strong focus on revenue enhancement, public health, and strict enforcement of the state’s gutkha prohibition law. 

 The draft budget was tabled during the 38th General Council meeting of the BMC, which also held a special session for budget discussions.

 According to the budget proposal, Rs 300 crore will be generated from BMC’s own revenue sources, while the remaining Rs 750 crore is expected to come from government grants. Emphasizing financial sustainability, the council stressed the need to improve revenue generation and ensure efficient utilization of funds.

Complete Ban On Gutkha Sale

 One of the most significant decisions taken during the meeting was the complete ban on the sale of gutkha across the BMC area.

The civic body announced that licenses of vendors operating in vending zones and OMFED booths will be cancelled if found selling gutkha. Authorities further stated that gutkha enforcement drives will be intensified, and strict action will be taken against violators.

Also Read: Gutkha ban on paper, black market thrives in Odisha!

 In addition, all gutkha-related hoardings within BMC limits will be removed, and agencies displaying such advertisements will face penalties.

 During the meeting, the BMC Commissioner appealed to all corporators to extend full cooperation to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the Lingaraj Jagar Yatra. The council also reviewed infrastructure preparedness ahead of the monsoon and directed that drainage works at ISKCON and Rasulgarh be completed before the rainy season begins.

Avoiding Rental Expenses

 On the healthcare front, the government instructed that Urban Health and Wellness Centres (UHWC) currently functioning in rented premises should be shifted to government or self-owned buildings to avoid rental expenses. However, it was clarified that no UHWC under BMC will be shut down.

 The General Council also discussed the immediate renovation of the Chandrasekharpur Kalyan Mandap and the rehabilitation of those affected by the No. 1 market fire incident within 30 days. The meeting concluded with a resolution to strictly implement all decisions in the interest of public welfare and urban development.