Odisha Emerges as Top Performer Under AMRUT 2.0, Strengthens Urban Water Infrastructure

Bhubaneswar: Odisha has emerged as a leading state in urban transformation, registering strong progress under the AMRUT 2.0 with significant advancements in water supply and infrastructure development across cities.

Launched in October 2021 and extended till March 2027, the mission focuses on universal water access, rejuvenation of water bodies, and improved urban services. In Odisha, implementation spans 89 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), with 345 projects approved at an estimated cost of ₹4,030.18 crore.

Officials said the state has demonstrated efficient execution, with 99 projects already completed while others are progressing steadily. Odisha has also achieved near-total utilisation of funds, reflecting strong financial management and effective planning.

As part of the mission, the state has made notable progress in urban water infrastructure. Seven Water Treatment Plants with a combined capacity of 43 MLD have been commissioned, benefiting around 2.83 lakh citizens. Additionally, 24×7 water supply systems have been introduced in key urban centres, alongside the provision of over 2.7 lakh household connections. Overall, more than 5 lakh residents have directly benefited from these initiatives.

Highlighting the achievement, Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, Minister for Housing & Urban Development, said the state’s top ranking reflects its focused approach towards ensuring reliable water access and robust infrastructure. He reiterated the government’s commitment to building resilient, inclusive, and future-ready cities aligned with the vision of a “Viksit Odisha.”

The state has also leveraged complementary programmes of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, including Pay Jal Survekshan and Jai Hind AMRUT, securing incentives and advancing water management and reuse projects.

Community-led initiatives such as AMRUT Mitra and Women for Tree programmes have further strengthened sustainability efforts, with women Self Help Groups actively participating in plantation drives and waterbody rejuvenation.

In addition, Odisha has adopted innovative financing approaches under the Credit Enhancement Initiative, enabling smaller ULBs to undertake infrastructure projects and expand service delivery.