Bhubaneswar: Sustainable development is the new mantra to counter the threat of global warming, but the administration here seems least concerned to implement green initiatives planned to maintain environmental balance.
The situation is of concern in the city's real estate sector where the green norms are still in a nascent stage despite the fact that India is one of the leading countries when it comes to green buildings. India is ranked second after the US in implementing green building norms, according to US Green Building Council.
The United States Environment Protection Agency defines green building construction as the practice of using processes and technologies that are environmentally responsible and energy-efficient throughout the building's lifecycle. This includes installation of solar rooftop panels, rainwater-harvesting system among others.
"The initial cost of constructing a green building is relatively higher than conventional ones. However, enduring benefits such as low-operating cost, better health and enhanced productivity makes sustainable real estate an extremely viable long-term investment for both developers and consumers," said Sangram Nayak, a real-estate developer.
Apart from private players, the administration has also failed to execute projects such as installation of solar panels and rainwater harvesting system at major government establishments.
The only recent government initiative that tasted success is powering new traffic lights with solar panels.
"We have installed the solar panels at a few buildings, including the municipal hospital in Old Town. In the near future, we are going to come up with more such initiatives under the smart city mission," said mayor Ananta Narayan Jena.
As part of the smart city project, there were plans to use solar energy to power street lights and install solar panels at major government and private facilities. It also intends to encourage citizens to opt for solar energy in their households.
However, its implementation has remained a daydream. Bhubaneswar was among the 54 cities selected for conversion into a model solar city. "There were some problems with the energy department for which the plan couldn't materialise," said a civic body official.
Though mandated by the Centre's model building bylaws, the city administration has also failed to install the rainwater harvesting system at major government establishments and other private apartments.
"We have already installed the system at a few places and are in the process of identifying others for the project," said the official.
Environmentalist Sailabala Padhi said:"These measures ensure better air quality, enhanced daylight, optimal use of water and electricity and improved health."
