Water Conservation / Odisha accelerates water security push with 89 in-stream storage projects

Bhubaneswar, Nov 9: The Odisha Government has intensified its efforts to strengthen water conservation and water security across the state through the In-stream Storage Structure (ISS) 2.0 programme.

Being implemented in mission mode under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the initiative aims to enhance water availability, improve irrigation infrastructure and build long-term resilience against climate-related water challenges.

According to the Water Resources Department, a total of 89 In-stream Storage Structure projects have been taken up across Odisha in four phases under the ISS 2.0 programme. The projects are designed to capture and store river water during the monsoon season for use during dry periods.

Also read: Odisha Revenue Dept ACS urges officials to uphold integrity after ORS officer caught in bribery case

So far, 10 projects have been completed, creating a water storage capacity of approximately 1.10 crore cubic metres. These projects are expected to benefit around 1.82 lakh people across more than 122 villages.

The completed projects are located at Julko in Kalahandi, Chhatamakhana in Balangir, Jakamarapalli, Dholpita and Dhanei in Ganjam, Mahulpali in Baragada, Saptamatruka in Jajpur, and Gochara, Kirasasan and Budharaja in Sambalpur.

The government has also accelerated work on 22 ongoing projects spread across 13 districts. Sundaragada currently has five projects under construction, while Khordha has three. Several other districts are witnessing steady progress as part of the state's broader water conservation strategy.

In addition, 35 more projects are in the pipeline, of which 12 are expected to begin construction shortly. Officials believe these projects will play a significant role in addressing seasonal water shortages and improving water resource management.

The ISS structures are expected to support irrigation, recharge groundwater levels, improve access to drinking water and promote fisheries and rural livelihoods.

With climate change leading to unpredictable rainfall patterns and growing pressure on water resources, the scheme is being viewed as a critical intervention for ensuring sustainable water management.

The government said the ISS 2.0 programme will not only strengthen Odisha's water infrastructure but also contribute to agricultural growth, rural economic development and long-term water security for communities across the state.