IWWA Odisha Marks World Environment Day with Plantation Drive, Launches Green Campaign

Bhubaneswar: Reinforcing the message of environmental conservation and sustainable development, the Odisha Centre of the Indian Water Works Association (IWWA) observed World Environment Day 2026 with a tree plantation programme at the Odisha Urban Academy campus in Bhubaneswar on Friday.

The initiative was organised in collaboration with engineers from the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO) and Odisha Water Supply and Sewerage Board (OWSSB) under this year’s World Environment Day theme, “Inspired by Nature, For Climate, For Our Future.” The programme sought to promote environmental awareness, strengthen green cover and encourage discussions on water security and climate resilience.

The plantation drive was led by IWWA Odisha Centre President Er. Hadibandhu Behera and Secretary Er. Bilas Kumar Behera. General Secretary Er. Basant Kumar Parida highlighted the need for collective efforts to protect the environment and ensure sustainable management of water resources.

Former Engineer-in-Chief Er. Satyendra Mohan Patnaik attended the programme as the chief guest. Addressing participants, he stressed that engineers have a crucial role in preserving natural resources and advancing sustainable development. He noted that environmental degradation and pollution require sustained action and long-term commitment rather than being confined to annual observances.

WATCO Managing Director Er. Debabrata Mohanty, along with several senior engineers and water sector professionals, also participated in the event. Mohanty encouraged young professionals to integrate environmentally responsible practices into both their personal and professional lives.

During the programme, IWWA Odisha Centre announced plans to undertake extensive plantation drives across educational institutions and government establishments in the coming years as part of a broader green initiative. The plantation at Odisha Urban Academy was described as the first phase of this campaign.

The event concluded with participants taking a pledge to promote eco-friendly practices, environmental awareness and sustainable development initiatives across the state. Organisers expressed hope that such efforts would contribute to building a greener and more climate-resilient Odisha.