Odisha Reviews Drinking Water Arrangements, 42 MLD Plant Ahead of Rath Yatra in Puri

Puri: With preparations for the annual Rath Yatra entering the final phase, the Odisha Government on Saturday reviewed drinking water infrastructure and festival-specific arrangements in Puri to ensure an uninterrupted supply of safe drinking water for the lakhs of devotees expected to visit the pilgrim city.

Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra chaired a high-level review meeting with officials of the department and the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO) before inspecting the ongoing construction of the 42 MLD Water Treatment Plant, a key project aimed at strengthening Puri’s long-term water supply network.

During the inspection, the Minister reviewed the progress of major components of the treatment plant, including the clarifier, filtration units, equipment installation and associated infrastructure. He directed the executing agencies to expedite the remaining work while maintaining prescribed quality standards so that the project is completed within the stipulated timeframe.

Highlighting the surge in population during Rath Yatra, Dr. Mahapatra said uninterrupted access to safe drinking water for devotees and local residents remains one of the government’s top priorities. He instructed officials to remain prepared for any emergency and ensure efficient coordination throughout the festival period.

The Minister also reviewed arrangements for continuous water supply around the Shree Jagannath Temple, pilgrim accommodation centres, temporary camps and other key locations across the city. Officials were directed to keep the distribution network under constant surveillance and ensure standby pumps, backup power systems and emergency response mechanisms remain operational.

WATCO Managing Director Debabrata Mohanty, along with senior engineers and project officials, briefed the Minister on the special measures being implemented for the festival. As part of the contingency plan, WATCO has deployed mobile water tankers, established temporary water distribution points and kept emergency response teams on standby to address any disruption in supply. A dedicated control room will also function round the clock during the Rath Yatra to monitor operations and respond to complaints.

Reiterating the State Government’s commitment to ensuring seamless civic services during the festival, Dr. Mahapatra said all concerned agencies have been instructed to maintain uninterrupted drinking water supply and complete the ongoing infrastructure project without compromising on quality.