Assembly guesthouse expansion: New block to enhance accommodation for dignitaries

Bhubaneswar: To address space constraints faced by visitors at the old guesthouse of the state assembly, speaker Surama Padhy on Saturday laid the foundation stone for a new extension block of the facility.The existing guesthouse, which has 23 rooms, grapples with space shortage, prompting the govt to initiate the expansion project. The new three-storey building, which will be constructed at a cost of over Rs 3.08 crore, will add 16 rooms, all equipped with modern amenities and connected by lifts.Spanning an area of over 9,000 sq ft, the new block is slated for completion by March 31, 2026. Once finished, the total number of rooms will rise to 39.

Additionally, the new guesthouse in front of the OMC office of the assembly offers 18 rooms, bringing the combined total of rooms to 57.In a bid to enhance convenience and security, the guesthouse will also introduce online booking facilities and 24-hour security services. The initiative aims to provide a safe and comfortable stay for former legislators visiting Bhubaneswar, read an official statement issued by the state govt.

Expansion of the guesthouse is expected to significantly improve accommodation facilities for visiting dignitaries and former legislators, ensuring that their stay in the city is both convenient and secure, officials said. “The project underscores the govt’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and hospitality services for its esteemed guests,” said an assembly official.The ceremony, held in Unit IV area here, was attended by deputy speaker Bhabani Shankar Bhoi and other senior assembly officials.