Construction of 288 houses under RAY begins in Berhampur

Construction of 288 houses under Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY), a central government-sponsored urban housing scheme, has started in this south Odisha city.
"The scheme envisages a 'Slum-free India' where every citizen has access to basic civic infrastructure, social amenities and decent shelter. Those who lost their houses in cyclone Phailin in 2013 will be covered under the scheme," Berhampur MLA, R C Chyaupatnaik after performing the Bhumi Puja at Dhobabandh, said yesterday.
Officials said the Centre has so far approved nine RAY projects for the city. As many as 5,193 dwelling units will be constructed in 83 slums at an estimated cost of Rs 177 crore. The central government has already released Rs 90 crore to Berhampur Municipal Corporation for the purpose.

The civic body will soon submit proposal for construction of RAY houses in 85 more slum pockets, they said.
"The funding pattern of the scheme is 75:15 between the Centre and states. The rest 10 per cent will be borne by the beneficiary. While construction of 808 under four projects is on, the rest will be taken up soon," Slum Development Officer of the corporation P K Chhotray said.
The corporation has signed an agreement with three central PSUs - Bridge and Roof Co (India) Ltd, Hindustan Steel Ltd and National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd for construction of these houses, he said.

"They are required to complete these houses in the next 24 months," he added.
The corporation will build roads, install street lights and drinking water supply in these pockets, officials added.