Balasore: A group of youths have come up with a novel initiative to help the elderly.

Balasore Development Forum is setting up and old-age home in the town and has also launched a dedicated helpline number for the elderly. Balasore MP R.K. Jena and social activists Tualsi Munda, Madhusudan Tabolkar and Radhamohan launched the helpline number - 9776661702 - during an event on Monday.

"The helpline number became operational from Monday and it would be available between 6am and 10pm. Senior citizens can call the number to air their grievances. We will note down the problems and make efforts to address them," said forum secretary Sairul Haque.

"We have been providing all possible help, including financial and legal, to senior citizens since the forum was formed about two years ago. This helpline number will widen our reach."

The forum has already began construction of an old-age home at Isani village on a 60 decimal patch donated by local resident Laxmi Rana. The organisation is also in the process of acquiring another 1.5 acres adjacent to it to construct a 100bed home for senior citizens.

"The under construction building will be able to accommodate 25 people. We have already completed 80 per cent of the work on the facility and are hopeful of completing it in another three to four months," said forum president Bikram Panda.

"The estimated budget for the 100-bed home is Rs 8 crore. While majority of the fund is being generated through our members' contribution, we are also making arrangements for donations," he said.

The forum, registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860, has 48 members. "Old-age homes are an essential requirement for some senior citizens. It would be a great help for the elderly when its ready," said secretary of the district's Senior Citizens' Forum Laxmidhar Behera .