Bhubaneswar: Odisha is making remarkable strides in ensuring universal access to safe drinking water, with transformative initiatives reshaping lives in Hatadihi block of Keonjhar district and Khariar block of Nuapada district. Mega Pipe Water Supply (PWS) projects in these regions are bringing clean, treated water directly to households, fostering empowerment, health, and development.
In Hatadihi block, a comprehensive PWS project funded by the Odisha Mineral Bearing Areas Development Corporation (OMBADC) has revolutionized water supply. Over 5,385 households across 19 villages now have treated water delivered directly to their doorsteps, benefiting more than 18,000 residents.
Before this initiative, villagers depended on 170 tube wells and sanitary wells, with women and children walking 50 to 200 meters daily to fetch water. The new system, which provides Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs), eliminates these struggles, empowering women and enhancing community well-being.
The project has significantly improved public health by reducing waterborne diseases and ensuring better hygiene. It also enables women to redirect time previously spent fetching water toward education, work, and family care, fostering empowerment and economic growth.
A similar success story unfolds in Khariar block, where a recently completed Mega PWS project connects 8,627 households across 35 villages. This initiative provides reliable access to treated drinking water for 33,490 people, marking a major leap forward for communities in Ranipur, Chandel, Dhanksar, Bhaludungri, Gudaveli, and surrounding areas.
Traditionally, women bore the burden of securing water, often walking long distances daily. With FHTCs now in place, these women are free to pursue education, livelihoods, and family responsibilities, significantly improving their quality of life.
The project’s outcomes extend beyond water access. Improved health, reduced waterborne illnesses, and enhanced sanitation have elevated the community’s overall well-being. Families enjoy better hygiene, and children can focus on education and play, contributing to a brighter future.
Both projects showcase how strategic investments in infrastructure, supported by resources from mineral-bearing areas, can drive sustainable and inclusive development. These initiatives align with Odisha’s broader goal of providing functional household tap connections to every household and achieving universal water access.
Odisha’s focus on clean water access reflects a commitment to health, empowerment, and economic growth, setting an inspiring example for other regions. These projects are not just about water supply—they are a testament to the state’s vision for holistic progress and the transformative power of well-planned interventions.
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