Odisha approves five instream storage projects worth Rs 625 crore
The projects across five districts are expected to benefit nearly 72,000 people in 74 villages through improved water availability.
The Odisha government has approved five Instream Storage Structure (ISS) projects worth Rs 625.47 crore within a month, according to Odisha Bytes. These projects are located in the Rayagada, Kalahandi, Ganjam, Balangir and Sonepur districts.
The infrastructure is expected to benefit nearly 72,000 people across 74 villages by improving water availability, groundwater recharge and supporting rural livelihoods. The structures will conserve monsoon water within river channels to ensure availability during the lean season.
The approved projects include the Dhuanpadar ISS on the Vansadhara River and Revatiguda ISS on the Nagavali River in Rayagada district. In Ganjam, the Bhimpur ISS will be built on the Bahuda River, while the Muralijore ISS is located near Nijharidara village in the Bhawanipatna block of Kalahandi district.
The Kutasingha Barrage will be constructed across the Ong River, a tributary of the Mahanadi, to serve communities in Balangir and Sonepur. The Dhuanpadar, Muralijore and Revatiguda projects are also expected to create opportunities for fisheries and allied activities.
These initiatives aim to support irrigation, livestock rearing and domestic water requirements. The projects are part of a mission-mode approach to the ISS programme since 2024 to focus on water conservation and climate adaptation.