Bhubaneswar: Marking World Water Day with a strong push for water conservation and management, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a series of key projects worth ₹1,368 crore. These include 100 newly constructed check dams, four minor irrigation projects, and 18 mega lift irrigation projects aimed at boosting irrigation and water storage across the state. Launching the “Go-Water” ERP App for efficient resource management, Majhi emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring water security and tackling climate challenges.
Speaking at an event organized by the Water Resources Department at the Convention Center in Lok Seva Bhawan, Majhi underscored the urgency of strengthening water security amid increasing demand and climate change. He highlighted that while the government is implementing large-scale measures, community involvement is equally crucial in ensuring long-term water conservation. He pointed out that Odisha is taking proactive steps to address global concerns over water scarcity, referencing reports that indicate over 220 crore people worldwide already face water shortages, a crisis expected to worsen due to climate change and rising populations.
During the event, the Chief Minister inaugurated 100 check dams across 20 districts, built at a cost of ₹80 crore to enhance water retention and groundwater recharge. He also dedicated four minor irrigation projects worth ₹61.53 crore, which will directly benefit farmers by improving agricultural water supply. Additionally, he laid the foundation for 18 mega lift irrigation projects valued at ₹1,227 crore, which will provide irrigation facilities to over 27,000 hectares of upland across multiple districts. He further announced the construction of 72 in-stream storage projects aimed at conserving 65,792 hectare-meters of water, ensuring year-round availability for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes.
Addressing the impact of climate change, Majhi stressed that declining soil moisture and melting glaciers, as warned by the World Meteorological Organization, pose a serious threat to water security. Recognizing these challenges, the Odisha government has allocated ₹14,841 crore for water conservation and irrigation in this year’s budget, with a long-term goal of expanding irrigation coverage by 15 lakh hectares by 2029. The government is also formulating a new water policy to tackle issues related to silted and polluted rivers, promote rainwater harvesting, and enhance groundwater recharge efforts.
Highlighting the importance of water conservation initiatives, the Chief Minister referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks during the launch of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan in 2021, emphasizing that rapid development is impossible without water security and efficient water management. Under the Jal Shakti Abhiyan 2024, Odisha has undertaken extensive efforts to improve water conservation, including the renovation of traditional water bodies, groundwater recharge programs, and large-scale watershed projects.
As part of technological advancements in water management, Majhi launched the “Go-Water” ERP App, a digital platform designed to enhance monitoring and oversight of water resource projects. The app aims to improve efficiency, track project progress, and ensure timely interventions for better management of irrigation and conservation efforts.
In her welcome address, Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary of the Water Resources Department, Anu Garg, highlighted the government’s strategic approach to water resource management. She noted that Odisha is prioritizing a balance between conservation, agricultural irrigation, drinking water supply, and industrial use to ensure sustainable development.