Odisha Water Resources Department Sets Deadline-Driven Push for Irrigation, Infrastructure Projects

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has stepped up efforts to fast-track irrigation and water infrastructure projects, with the Water Resources Department calling for closer monitoring of project execution, faster clearances and result-oriented use of public funds.

A review meeting chaired by Water Resources Department Principal Secretary Shubha Sarma assessed the progress of ongoing works and examined measures to ensure that projects move ahead within the current financial year.

Officials were directed to prioritise the execution of capital expenditure works, major irrigation projects, drainage schemes, dams, barrages and canal projects. Controlling officers were asked to accelerate tender finalisation and issue work orders without unnecessary delays.

The department also stressed the need for speedy disposal of pending approvals and Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) proposals. Officials were asked to prepare realistic cost estimates and ensure that allocated funds are utilised effectively within the financial year.

Sarma emphasised that financial expenditure alone should not be treated as an indicator of performance. She called for greater focus on the actual outcomes of projects, particularly the creation of irrigation potential and delivery of intended benefits to people.

The meeting also underlined the need to strengthen water resources infrastructure and ensure timely completion of ongoing projects. Departments and field-level officials were advised to coordinate closely to make the best possible use of available financial resources.

The department also reviewed the use of technology for planning and monitoring its works. A presentation on the PM Gati Shakti portal was made, with officials directed to take steps to make effective use of the platform for coordinated infrastructure planning.

Discussions were also held on improving water tax collection and strengthening the BAMIS (Budget Allocation and Monitoring Information System) portal. Further improvements to BAMIS were proposed to facilitate better monitoring of budget allocation, expenditure and departmental projects.

The meeting also discussed Odisha’s nomination for the National Water Awards.

Engineer-in-Chief Dillip Kumar Rout, Director of Rehabilitation and Resettlement Ashok Kumar Behera, senior officers, Chief Engineers and other officials of the department attended the review meeting.