Bhubaneswar, In a transformative move to address water scarcity, flooding, and agricultural challenges,
the Government of Odisha has announced visionary intra-state river linking projects at an
approximate cost of 1790 Cr. Spear headed by the Department of Water Resources (DoWR),
this ambitious initiative aims to optimize water distribution by connecting surplus river basins
with deficit regions, ensuring equitable access for irrigation, drinking water, and industrial needs.
Scheduled for completion between 2025-26 and 2029-30, the project reflects Odisha’s
commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience. By leveraging existing
infrastructure and minimizing displacement, the state aims to create a model for efficient water
governance that balances economic growth with ecological preservation.
The project comprises six key components as pilot projects, each designed to address
specific water management challenges.
The Katra Link Project will establish a feeder channel from Kansapal ISS to enhance
irrigation in drought-prone areas.To mitigate flooding, the Hiradharbati Flood Flow Channel will
redirect part of unharnessed floodwaters to Chilika Lake, connecting the enroute Tamparas and
reducing downstream risks. The Bahuda-Rushikulya basin (BahanaKeluapalli Tampara) Link will
ensure drinking water security for Berhampur town and the Gopalpur SEZ. The Vansadhara-
Rushikulya Intra-link will divert water through Nandini Nalla to regions facing acute water
shortages, while the Ong-Suktel Garland Canal will rejuvenate 108 tanks and create 10,000
hectares of new irrigated land. Lastly, the Telengiri-Upper Kolab PSP will support irrigation and
reservoir extension, completing this comprehensive water network.
This groundbreaking initiative of Government of Odisha promises far-reaching benefits
for the state. By creating additional water storage and reviving over 150 water bodies, the
project will mitigate drought impacts in arid regions like Bolangir and Ganjam. The flood control
measures will protect vulnerable communities from seasonal inundation, while the stabilization
of existing ayacut and expansion of irrigated land will significantly boost agricultural productivity.
The project also prioritizes drinking water security, addressing both urban and industrial
demands. Additionally, the integration of real-time monitoring systems ensures adaptive
management of water resources, enhancing climate resilience in the face of erratic rainfall
patterns.
A standout feature of the project is its emphasis on minimal displacement and
environmental sustainability. By utilizing existing infrastructure, such as underground pipelines
and river corridors, the initiative avoids large-scale land acquisition and reduces ecological
disruption. Funded entirely by state resources, ensuring streamlined execution under the
oversight of the Chief Engineer and a dedicated monitoring team. This approach aligns with
Odisha’s State Water Policy and underscores the Government of Odisha’s commitment to
inclusive and sustainable development.
Government of Odisha’s intra-state river linking initiative is not just about engineering
water transfers; it is about transferring hope and opportunity to regions historically marginalised
by geography and rainfall patterns. By aligning this programme with climate adaptation,
agricultural productivity, energy security, and inclusive growth, the state has crafted a holistic
water vision for the 21st century. In doing so, it has demonstrated that with Odisha’s political will,
technical expertise, and people-centric planning, even the most complex resource challenges
can be transformed into opportunities for resilience and renewal.
