Bhubaneswar: “The time has come for a cultural shift in governance — one that reflects integrity, responsiveness, and efficiency. Punctuality and professional behaviour should be non-negotiable, and flexibility may only be allowed in exceptional circumstances,” asserted Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Housing & Urban Development Department, as she rolled out a fresh set of directives aimed at transforming the functioning of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across Odisha.
In a move to enhance transparency, discipline, and public trust, Padhee has urged all ULB officials to adopt a more accountable and citizen-focused approach to administration. Recognizing the efforts of Executive Officers (EOs) in maintaining punctuality, she called for this work ethic to be extended across all levels of ULB staff.
A key element of the new directive is the immediate implementation of biometric attendance systems in all ULB offices. This is expected to institutionalize discipline and ensure timely service delivery. “Executive Officers must lead from the front,” Padhee emphasized, adding that leadership by example is essential to driving systemic change.
To further reinforce staff accountability and improve service experience for citizens, the directive also recommends the installation of CCTV surveillance systems within office premises. These systems will monitor both staff conduct and public interactions, contributing to a safer and more transparent office environment.
The Director of Municipal Administration (DMA), Arindam Dakua, has been instructed to actively oversee and ensure compliance with these measures across all ULBs. His role will be central in tracking progress and addressing implementation challenges, if any.
These initiatives form part of Odisha’s broader vision to build a governance system that is transparent, responsive, and firmly rooted in public accountability. Through these reforms, the state aims to set a benchmark in urban administration where efficiency and citizen satisfaction go hand in hand.
