Odisha Steps Up Irrigation: The Department of Water Resources, Odisha is stepping up efforts to boost irrigation capacity and modernize water management across the state. Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Smt. Anu Garg chaired a high-level review meeting with senior officials to assess departmental spending and finalize the roadmap ahead.
The review emphasized timely completion of ongoing projects to meet targets under the state’s 5-Year Irrigation Plan. As part of the directive, five major, 15 medium, and 100 minor irrigation projects have been identified for accelerated implementation. The Engineer-in-Chief, Water Resources, has been entrusted with monitoring both existing works and new initiatives.
In addition, the Engineer-in-Chief (Procurement) has been asked to expedite the tendering process to ensure early execution of projects. The meeting also directed the Odisha Construction Corporation (OCC) and the Chief Engineer, Minor Irrigation, to push forward tank development projects under the Odisha Integrated Irrigated Agriculture and Water Management Project (OIIPCRA).
For financial sustainability, the Engineer-in-Chief (Planning & Design) was tasked with enhancing water rate collection from industries. Visible progress in critical areas, including installation of gates on ungated projects, automation of existing gates, and river interlinking, was also stressed. The department further set a target to complete 50 minor irrigation projects using underground pressurized pipeline (UGPL) systems.
Strengthening manpower is another priority, with recruitment of 469 Junior Assistants being fast-tracked.
These measures highlight Odisha’s focus on expanding its irrigation network, modernizing water infrastructure, and ensuring long-term agricultural growth and water security.
