Odisha govt approves five in-stream storage projects worth Rs 625.47 crore across five districts

Bhubaneswar, Nov 13: The Odisha government accorded administrative approval to five in-stream storage (ISS) projects worth Rs 625.47 crore across five districts within a month, aiming to strengthen water security and improve rural livelihoods.

The projects will be implemented in Rayagada, Kalahandi, Ganjam, Balangir and Subarnapur districts, benefiting around 72,000 people across 74 villages, according to an official release issued on Friday.

The five projects include the Dhuanpadar in-stream storage structure on the Vamsadhara river and the Rebatiguda structure on the Nagavali river in Rayagada district; the Bhimpur structure on the Bahuda river in Ganjam; and the Muralijore structure near Nijharidara village in Bhawanipatna block of Kalahandi district.

The fifth project is the Kutasingha barrage on the Ong river, a major tributary of the Mahanadi, which will benefit people in Balangir and Subarnapur districts.

The projects are designed to conserve surplus river water flowing during the monsoon and make it available during summer and other periods of low rainfall. The stored water is expected to help recharge groundwater and improve water availability in wells and tube wells, particularly in water-stressed areas.

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Apart from strengthening drinking water availability, the projects are expected to support irrigation, livestock rearing and other rural livelihood activities.

The Dhuanpadar, Muralijore and Rebatiguda projects are also expected to create new opportunities in fisheries and allied activities. These initiatives are projected to increase local incomes and strengthen the rural economy.

The state government has been implementing its in-stream storage programme in mission mode since 2024, with a focus on water conservation, addressing the challenges of climate change and ensuring long-term water security.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the government has prioritised water conservation and the development of sustainable water resource infrastructure.