In a decisive push to secure water for drinking, agriculture, livestock and fisheries in western Odisha, the state Cabinet has approved tenders for the construction of two in-stream storage structures (ISS) — one each in Badagada and Kalahandi districts.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg announced the decisions at a press conference here, highlighting how these projects will transform water availability for dozens of villages while supporting rural livelihoods.
Baragada Project
The first project will come up near Jamutpalli village in Gaisilet block on the Ong river, a tributary of the Mahanadi. With an estimated cost of ₹159.37 crore, the structure will be completed in 30 months. It is expected to provide reliable drinking water to 41 villages across Gaisilet and Padampur blocks. The project will also boost animal husbandry, pisciculture and irrigation-dependent farming, directly improving the economic and social conditions of local communities.
Kalahandi Project
The second project will be built near Amath village in Kesinga block on the Tel river, another Mahanadi tributary. Estimated at ₹256.72 crore, it will be completed within 36 months. This reservoir will ensure water supply to 41 villages in Saintala, Titilagarh and Kesinga blocks, offering much-needed relief in a region that has long faced water challenges.
New Service Rules for Faster Delivery
Alongside the projects, the Cabinet approved the “Odisha Irrigation Area Development Ministerial Service Rules, 2026”. These rules will streamline recruitment, file processing, bill preparation and institutional management in the Irrigation Area Development and Irrigation Management Directorate under the Water Resources Department. Officials believe the changes will make grassroots irrigation programmes more efficient and responsive.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg said the twin decisions reflect the government’s strong commitment to water resource development and agricultural growth. “These in-stream storage structures will not only address drinking water needs but also create sustainable livelihood opportunities for farmers, livestock rearers and fish farmers,” she noted.
The projects are expected to mark a significant step towards long-term water security and rural prosperity in western Odisha.
