Sambalpur: Integrated Foundation Complex; Two Years Since Inauguration, When Will the Helpless Find Shelter?
Discover the challenges faced by Sambalpur’s Integrated Foundation Complex, a 25.43 crore project designed to provide shelter and comprehensive facilities for the helpless and differently-abled.
Sambalpur: The Integrated Foundation Complex in Sambalpur was constructed at a cost of 25.43 crore INR. It’s been almost two years since its inauguration, yet the project has not achieved its intended purpose. Over time, this palatial structure has started losing its luster. Although a school for differently-abled children operates there, it only serves a nominal number of students. Intellectuals are calling for action to make this multi-crore project effective and provide shelter to the helpless.
Delayed Inauguration and Limited Functionality
The complex was officially inaugurated in August 2022. Nearly two years have passed since then, and only one of the two approved schools, for the mute and deaf, has started operations, with 40 students living and studying there. The complex was designed to provide a safe haven for society’s neglected and helpless individuals, but it currently needs to be utilized.
Grand Vision and Modern Amenities
The complex, which cost 25 crores, 43 lakhs, and 62 thousand INR to build, was intended to provide comprehensive facilities in one location. Its modern design and cutting-edge amenities rival those of a five-star hotel. However, it has not yet been fully operational.
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Foundation Stone Laid in 2017
The foundation stone was laid on March 19, 2017, during a meeting for the differently abled in Sambalpur, by the then-Chief Minister. The ultra-modern two-story complex, located near Baijamunda village in Ward No. 1 of the Metropolitan Corporation, spans 6597.955 square meters of land and houses 147 rooms. Residents have separate kitchens and entertainment facilities. An additional eight acres of land have been reserved, with plans to build a school for the disabled, a training center, and other facilities. The district’s homeless, differently-abled, elderly, beggars and transgender people will find shelter here, as well as comprehensive training and services. They promised high-quality living, dining, entertainment, and sports facilities, as well as yoga and medical services.
Current Issues and Unmet Promises
Currently, there is a problem accommodating helpless people rescued from various parts of the city. The differently-abled and those forced to beg seek refuge on the streets or under trees. The Integrated Foundation Complex was designed to address these issues by combining all necessary services in one location. During the inauguration, a few beggars were brought in and accommodated, but due to operational flaws, various issues arose, forcing the rescued beggars to relocate. After spending crores on the project, the public is concerned about its inefficiency.
