The Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen Patnaik, announced on Friday that the state government would invest Rs 75,000 crore in the water sector over the next five years. He also highlighted that projects worth Rs 46,000 crore have already been approved for the sector in the past four years. Patnaik made these statements during a felicitation program honoring the Water Resource Department’s Team Odisha and Ganjam district for their achievements in receiving National Water Awards.
Patnaik acknowledged the increasing expectations of the people from the government and emphasized the need for continuous hard work to meet those expectations. He highlighted the significant impact of water resources on agriculture and the lives of farmers. Several projects have been completed in recent years to fulfill the aspirations of the people.
The state of Odisha received recognition as the second-best state in water conservation and management, while Ganjam district was awarded the top honor among districts at the 4th National Water Awards. Patnaik commended the Water Resources Department for implementing the 5-T principles effectively, leading to visible results. Several irrigation projects, including Lower Suktel, Kanupur, Subarnarekha, and Chheligada, are nearing completion. The implementation of in-stream storage structures and mega lift projects is expected to significantly enhance the state’s irrigation potential and improve the lives of millions of farmers.
Patnaik stressed the need for the Water Resources Department to develop strategies and construct climate-resilient and sustainable water infrastructure, aiming to make Odisha a water-secure state as soon as possible. He also urged all Collectors to undertake large-scale water conservation measures, similar to those implemented by the Ganjam district Collector, to meet the water requirements of their respective districts.
Prasanta Patnaik