Bhubaneswar: In a move aimed at enhancing public amenities and promoting renewable energy, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated a process to install 25 smart solar benches at public places across the city, including parks, public plazas, open spaces and bus queue shelters.The civic body has issued a tender recently to select agencies for supplying, installing and maintaining the benches. According to the tender, the smart benches will be installed at 25 locations within the BMC limits, with the exact sites to be finalised after the contract is awarded.The project is part of the city’s larger smart city and green city initiatives and aims to provide citizens with modern, eco-friendly public facilities. “We have already installed two such benches on a pilot basis on Smart Janpath. Now we have decided to expand the project to other key sites,” mayor Sulochana Das said.The solar-powered benches will offer a range of features, including mobile charging points, LED lighting, seating facilities and Wi-Fi hotspots wherever feasible. The benches will run on solar energy and are designed to function as standalone units with battery backup systems, reducing dependence on conventional power sources.“People increasingly rely on digital devices while travelling or spending time in public spaces. These smart solar benches will provide charging facilities, lighting and comfortable seating while operating on renewable energy. It will be a small but visible step towards making public infrastructure smarter and greener,” a senior BMC official said.Officials said the initiative is expected to benefit commuters, pedestrians and visitors to parks and public spaces. The corporation believes the benches can become useful urban utilities in high-footfall areas, especially locations where people may need device-charging facilities while waiting or resting.Residents welcomed the proposal but stressed the need for proper upkeep. “Charging facilities and lighting at parks and public places will definitely be useful, especially for students and commuters. However, regular maintenance will be important so that these facilities remain functional,” said Sushant Mohanty, a resident of Saheed Nagar.Software professional Priyanka Das said the city authorities had installed smart digital kiosk, which was a similar initiative, but became a failure due to lack of awareness. “These benches can improve the experience of citizens using public spaces, but authorities need to maintain those properly,” she said.
