Odisha Cabinet Clears ₹105.62-Crore Water Storage Project for Drought-Hit Balangir

Bhubaneswar: Twelve drought-prone villages in Balangir district are expected to benefit from improved drinking water availability with the Odisha Cabinet approving a ₹105.62-crore tender for an in-stream water storage project on the Lanth river near Tustapalli village in Saintala block.

The project will involve the construction of an In-Stream Storage Structure (ISS) across the Lanth, a tributary of the Tel river. The approved tender amount is ₹105,62,33,960, excluding GST, and the project is scheduled to be completed within 30 calendar months.

The structure is intended to conserve rainwater during the monsoon and make it available during the dry months, when water shortages affect communities across the region. Balangir receives most of its rainfall during the southwest monsoon season from June to October. However, much of the rainwater runoff flows downstream, leaving several areas vulnerable to water scarcity during periods of low rainfall.

By retaining excess monsoon water in the river system, the proposed structure will create a local water reserve to meet needs during the lean season. The project is expected to provide a more dependable, year-round drinking water supply to 12 villages in Saintala block.

Beyond drinking water, the storage facility is expected to support livestock, fisheries and other rural livelihood activities that depend on adequate water availability. Seasonal shortages often affect these activities, making water conservation important for the livelihoods of local communities.

The project is also expected to help recharge groundwater aquifers and improve the availability of water in the surrounding areas. Better groundwater reserves could help reduce water depletion and support local ecosystems.

The initiative is part of efforts to strengthen water security in one of Odisha’s drought-sensitive regions by conserving monsoon runoff and improving the availability of water throughout the year. Once completed, the project is expected to help communities cope better with recurring dry spells and protect water-dependent livelihoods.