The Government of Odisha has directed all district administrations to submit proposals for the repair and maintenance of bridges and culverts across the state before the monsoon intensifies.
In an official communication dated July 6, 2026, Siddharth Shankar Swain (IAS), Director, Special Projects, Panchayati Raj & Drinking Water Department, instructed Collectors and Zilla Parishad officials to identify unsafe and structurally weak bridges and culverts. The government emphasised that ensuring public safety and uninterrupted rural connectivity remains a top priority.
Districts must prepare proposals based on field inspections and technical assessments, focusing on structures that are unsafe, distressed, or deteriorated. The directive mandates submission of detailed reports, including the nature of damage and estimated repair cost, within 15 days of the order.
Officials will prioritise repairs to prevent accidents and disruptions during heavy rainfall. The department also urged timely coordination between engineers and local authorities to expedite maintenance work.
The initiative aims to strengthen Odisha’s rural infrastructure and safeguard connectivity during the monsoon season, ensuring that essential routes remain operational for villagers and emergency services.
