The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) is making significant progress in urban governance by preparing to launch a WhatsApp chatbot. This new digital service is designed to help residents of the city submit complaints and access various civic services through a single, easy-to-use platform.
On Wednesday, BMC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IndusInd Bank and PeLocal Fintech Pvt. Ltd. to develop this technology and implement the WhatsApp service.
According to sources, citizens will be able to reach the chatbot using a specific WhatsApp number. This bot will enable residents to easily obtain information and manage services such as paying property taxes, trade license fees, and user fees for essential documents like birth and death certificates. Additionally, users can submit their complaints through this platform.
In addition to these services, the chatbot features an application for collecting rental payments from market and vending zones, allowing local vendors to pay their dues without needing to visit BMC offices.
By merging financial transactions and complaint resolution into one platform, BMC aims to make civic interactions simpler and enhance service delivery for its residents.
This WhatsApp chatbot initiative coincides with several upcoming development projects for Bhubaneswar. Urban Development Minister Krishna Chandra Mohapatra has announced plans by the state government to build more ring roads and overbridges in the city.
Previously, Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das discussed plans for designated street vending areas and organized market corridors. These initiatives are all part of efforts to position the state capital as a smart city ready for the future.
