Marking a significant milestone in Odisha’s digital governance journey, the Works Department under the digital initiative has officially launched the e-IB Online Reservation System (https://eibworks.odisha.gov.in). The portal was formally inaugurated by Shri Prithiviraj Harichandan, Honourable Minister of the Works Department at Lok Seva Bhawan, Odisha. The ceremony took place in the distinguished presence of Shri Sanjay Singh, Principal Secretary of Works, NIC Team and Engineers from all divisions across the state.
Scope
As a part of its initial rollout, the e-IB system is being implemented as a pilot project in three strategic locations known for high administrative and tourist footfall:
1. Bhubaneswar: PWD Inspection Bungalows (Satyanagar).
2. Puri: Nirman Niwas.
3. Konark: PWD Inspection Bungalows.
Features and Digital Workflow
The primary objective of the e-IB portal is the integration of an end-to-end online workflow management system. This replaces manual, paper-based processing with a transparent digital pipeline.
1. User Registration: To ensure ease of access, new applicants can register with minimal identification data, requiring only a mobile number and email ID. During the reservation process, users upload a government-issued ID for verification.
2. Automated Routing: Once a booking form is submitted, it is digitally routed from the user’s dashboard to the respective Approving Authority. This ensures that requests are tracked, time-bound, and audited.
3. Categorized Allotment: To balance departmental needs with public service, reservations are managed across four distinct categories:
1. State Guests & VIPs.
2. Government Officials on Duty.
3. Retired Government Servants.
4. Private Individuals / General Public.
Financial Integration and Monitoring
The system enhances financial accountability through an integrated online payment gateway. Unlike previous manual systems, users can settle their dues digitally during the checkout process.
For administrative efficiency, the platform provides real-time dashboards and MIS reports at all levels of the hierarchy. These tools allow the department to monitor room occupancy, revenue collection, and pending approvals across all pilot locations instantly.
Technical Development and Management
The e-IB platform has been designed, developed, and hosted by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), ensuring high standards of security and data integrity. The system is actively managed by the Chief Construction Engineer (R&B), Central Circle, Bhubaneswar, which provides oversight and technical support for the portal’s day-to-day operations.
Conclusion
The e-IB portal is a testament to the Government of Odisha’s commitment to "Minimum Government, Maximum Governance". By digitizing the stay-lifecycle from registration to final payment, the Works Department has ensured that the management of public infrastructure is transparent, efficient, and citizen-friendly. Following the success of this pilot, the system is expected to be scaled across all the Inspection Bungalows in the state.
