Now Reading: BDA adjusts Rs 10,000 fee for Ekamra flats after criticism
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BDA adjusts Rs 10,000 fee for Ekamra flats after criticism
The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) on 14 October decided to adjust its non-refundable Rs 10,000 application fee against the cost of flats for successful applicants of the Ekamra Residency housing project. The decision came days after concerns were raised over the fee, which applicants had to pay in addition to a refundable earnest money deposit of Rs 2 lakh. Unsuccessful applicants will receive a full refund of Rs 2.1 lakh, comprising the EMD and the application fee.
The BDA also announced incentives for allottees, including GST exemption and a 5% concession on stamp duty. Flats will be offered on a freehold basis with one year of free maintenance. The meeting, chaired by minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, also approved 10 town planning schemes covering 1,815 acres, the development of Lake Zones along Drain No. 10, and detailed project reports for four roads.
Indian Opinion Analysis
Both outlets reported the BDA’s fee adjustment and project approvals in a neutral, agency-style manner, with no pro-government or critical slant. The Times of India foregrounded the earlier controversy and the authority’s reversal, while Sambad English led with the town planning schemes and listed the fee decision as a sub-item. Together, the coverage presents a routine administrative correction rather than a concession to pressure. The next concrete step is the 19th Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo in Bhubaneswar from 23 to 25 October 2026.
Coverage: 2 sources, 2 neutral
Sources (2): timesofindia.indiatimes.com (neutral report), sambadenglish.com (neutral report)
This brief was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above, so one read covers every framing they carry. Methodology and corrections.
