Bhubaneswar, Jun 9: The Odisha Cabinet has approved a Rs440‑crore project for the redevelopment of the historic Ayodhya Sarovar in Sambalpur, paving the way for the construction of a bridge‑cum‑barrage across the Mahanadi, officials said on Tuesday.

The initiative, long championed by Sambalpur MP and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, is expected to transform the ageing reservoir into a hub for water conservation, tourism, and water sports.

A Long‑Awaited Project

Built in the 1960s, the Ayodhya Sarovar has fallen into disrepair, with cracks and structural weaknesses hampering its ability to store water. Local residents and civic groups had repeatedly flagged the need for restoration. The State Cabinet’s approval has triggered widespread optimism in Sambalpur, where the project is seen as a major infrastructural boost.

Bridge‑cum‑Barrage Design

According to officials, the barrage will be constructed between Marwari Ghat and the existing Chauraipur bridge. It will stand 3.5 metres high, with a length of 1.46 km and a width of 7.5 metres. A double‑lane road will run atop the barrage, improving connectivity across the Mahanadi while simultaneously enhancing water storage capacity.

Pradhan’s efforts

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan personally inspected the site in 2024, soon after the formation of the new state government, and pressed for its inclusion in Odisha’s development agenda. His sustained advocacy, coupled with state‑level support, has now culminated in Cabinet approval. Rural Development and Drinking Water Minister Ravi Narayan Naik and senior irrigation officials described the project as a “new chapter” for Sambalpur’s water infrastructure.
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Public Response

Local residents expressed relief that the long‑pending demand has finally been met. “This project will give Ayodhya Sarovar a new lease of life,” said Mukesh Jariwala, a Sambalpur resident. Intellectual Sanjay Sadangi added that the redevelopment would not only address water scarcity but also create opportunities for tourism and cultural activities.

Timeline and Impact

The construction is expected to be completed within 30 months. Once operational, the bridge‑cum‑barrage will facilitate smoother transport across the river, while the reservoir’s enhanced capacity will support urban water needs, recreational facilities, and eco‑tourism. For Sambalpur, the project represents both heritage renewal and modern infrastructure development.