The Executive Committee of the Chilika Development Authority (CDA) convened a crucial meeting today under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Secretary of the Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department, Satyabrata Sahu.
The session focused on accelerating various ongoing initiatives to ensure the sustainable conservation and development of Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.
ACS Sahu deliberated on multiple agendas and issued clear directives to the CDA to adhere strictly to all processes and guidelines while expediting the implementation of all projects within the prescribed timelines. He stressed the importance of prompt action to maintain the ecological balance of the lagoon.
CDA Chief Executive M. Yogajayananda provided a detailed overview of key activities, including water level maintenance, monitoring, desiltation efforts, fisheries resource development, and socio-economic upliftment programs for local communities.
The meeting thoroughly discussed several critical issues related to the authority, such as the integrated management plan for Chilika and Ansupa lakes, enhancement of the Chief Executive’s financial powers, procurement procedures, research activities, institutional matters, and budget estimates for the upcoming financial year.
Additionally, progress on the Detailed Project Report (DPR) being prepared by IIT Madras, Chennai, was reviewed. The DPR aims to ensure optimal water exchange, infrastructure development, and the overall health of the ecosystem.
Attendees included Prem Kumar Jha, IFS, PCCF (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, Odisha; the Director of Environment and Special Secretary, FE&CC Department; expert member Dr. Ajit Pattnayak, IFS (Retired); Financial Advisor from the FE&CC Department; Engineer-in-Chief from the Water Resources Department; and representatives from the Fisheries Department.
