Bhubaneswar: Odisha has completed 10 In-Stream Storage Structure (ISS) projects under its water conservation programme, creating a combined designed storage capacity of around 1.10 crore cubic metres, or 11 billion litres. The projects are expected to benefit approximately 1.82 lakh people across more than 122 villages.
The state government is accelerating the implementation of the scheme through ISS 2.0, with the Department of Water Resources taking up 89 projects in four phases to improve water availability and strengthen long-term water security.
The 10 completed structures are located at Julko in Kalahandi, Chhatamakhana in Balangir, Jakamarapalli, Dholapita and Dhanei in Ganjam, Mahulpali in Bargarh, Saptamatruka in Jajpur, and Gochara, Kirasasan and Budharaja in Sambalpur.
Meanwhile, construction is underway on 22 projects across 13 districts. Sundargarh accounts for five projects, while three are being implemented in Khordha. Work is also progressing in other districts. Another 35 projects are in the pipeline, of which 12 are expected to begin shortly.
The ISS initiative aims to conserve monsoon river flows through scientifically designed storage structures and make the stored water available during lean periods. The conserved water is expected to support irrigation, groundwater recharge and drinking water supply, besides promoting fisheries and other livelihood activities.
The structures are also intended to help rural communities cope with water scarcity and unpredictable rainfall by improving the availability of water throughout the year.
With 10 projects completed, 22 under construction and more in the pipeline, ISS 2.0 is being implemented as a key component of Odisha’s efforts to expand sustainable water conservation infrastructure and strengthen water security for agriculture and rural communities.
