Odisha Targets Foundation Laying for 30+ Instream Storage Structures by 2026

Bhubaneswar: Odisha has set an ambitious target of laying the foundation stones for more than 30 Instream Storage Structures (ISS) by the end of 2026 as part of efforts to expand water storage capacity and strengthen water availability across the state.

The Water Resources Department is expediting preparatory work for the projects, which are aimed at improving water conservation and ensuring greater availability of water for various needs.

Water Resources Department Principal Secretary Shubha Sharma reviewed the progress of preparatory works for ISS projects approved in four phases at a meeting attended by senior departmental officials.

The meeting reviewed the status of preparatory activities for five projects—Kanspal, Kadodara, Sungarah, Bharatpur and Phulbari. According to the department, works required ahead of laying the foundation stones of these projects have reached their final stages.

Sharma directed officials to complete the remaining processes at the earliest and ensure that foundation laying for the projects is taken up without further delay.

The department said the planned expansion of instream storage infrastructure will contribute to enhancing the state’s water storage capacity and strengthening water availability for different uses.