Bhubaneswar: After an enduring wait of more than two decades, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has inaugurated the long-anticipated Lower Suktel Irrigation Project in Balangir district today.
With an estimated value of Rs 2,723 crore, this significant development is poised to bring about transformative changes for the agrarian community in the drought-prone district. The project is anticipated to facilitate irrigation across more than one lakh acres of farmland in 203 villages spanning Balangir and Sonepur districts, benefiting approximately 80,000 farmers. The infrastructural marvel includes the ninth major dam in the state, standing at a height of 31 meters, a 1,155-meter-long earthen dam, and a 255-meter-long spillway. Beyond irrigation, the project is designed to provide drinking water to over 70,000 residents in the area.
Despite facing prolonged delays and cost escalations, the Lower Suktel Project’s inauguration is a landmark moment in bolstering agricultural development in Balangir. The Chief Minister expressed his confidence that, with the support of the local community, Balangir would continue its trajectory of comprehensive development, extending advancements to the realm of agriculture.
In addition to inaugurating the Lower Suktel Project, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced a slew of other projects totaling Rs 2,525 crore, spanning various sectors in the district. The foundation stone was laid for 112 projects, valued at Rs 2,220 crore, with an additional 69 projects launched, amounting to Rs 305 crore. This comprehensive approach underscores the state’s unwavering commitment to fostering all-encompassing development and growth in the region.