Bhubaneswar: Two years after the construction of the permanent building for Biswanath Pandit Central Library began, the project remains incomplete, triggering dissatisfaction among students and regular readers.
Project Delays and Shifting Timeline
The library, considered the largest in Cuttack, was originally located in Khannagar. The building was demolished in 2021 by the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) to facilitate the relocation of the Badambadi Bus Stand.
A 3.75-acre site near Palamandap was later identified for the new facility, with plans for a modern, fully equipped building to be completed within six months. However, the project faced delays, and construction only began in 2024 under the Odisha State Police Housing and Welfare Corporation at an estimated cost of ₹37 crore.
Temporary Relocations and Challenges
Following demolition, the library was temporarily shifted first to the Odisha Administrative Tribunal premises and later to the second floor of the Cuttack Netaji Bus Terminal in January 2024.
Students and readers have raised concerns over:
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Noise pollution from buses and traffic
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Inadequate seating and basic amenities
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Restricted three-hour reading slots due to limited space
Many users say the current environment is not conducive to focused study.
Official Assurance
Responding to concerns, Cuttack Mayor Subhash Singh said the G+3 building is nearing completion and is expected to be ready by April-end, after which the facility will become operational.
Legacy Institution
Established in 1981 at Saheed Bhawan and shifted to Khannagar in 1998, the library currently houses around 60,000 books, serving as a key academic resource for students and researchers in the city.
The delay has highlighted the urgent need for timely completion, as students continue to face difficulties accessing a proper study environment.
-OdishaAge
