Bhubaneswar: As many as 15 major irrigation projects will be made functional in Odisha by 2024.
It was known at the first meeting of the State Government’s Transformation Initiatives held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday.
Anu Garg, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Water Resources, made a presentation on the Department’s Transformational Initiative at the meeting.
Of the 15 major irrigation projects which are expected to be functionalized by 2024, four will be ready this year, four in 2023 and seven in 2024.
These projects have been successfully implemented with adoption of technology, teamwork, responsible rehabilitation policy and labour welfare. These projects will bring a transformation in the irrigation sector in the State.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has praised the Department of Water Resources for successful implementation of 5Ts, and taking up the task for completion of long-standing irrigation projects.
The Chief Minister also thanked engineers of the Department. He also advised other departments to apply such innovative ideas during implementation of the projects.
The district Collectors of Bolangir, Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj also briefed on the progress of the rehabilitation process.
The progress of the Deo Project, the Lower Suktel Project, the Subarnarekha, Kanupur, Chheligad, Rengali South Canal, Rengali Left Canal and many more were discussed at the meeting.
Extensive applications in technology, such as the use of underground pipeline systems, Geo Synthetic Mattress Lining, Scada, and automated water management, were discussed in the meeting.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary to CM (5T) VK Pandian said that the Chief Minister always emphasized transparency in public life.
The Chief Minister is always ready to extend his cooperation and support for taking steps for the development of the State through transparent and innovative ways, the 5T Secretary said.
He further said that various irrigation projects in Bolangir district are making good progress, and in the next 2-3 years Balangir become a green crop surplus district.
The meeting was attended by the Ministers Finance, Revenue, Housing & Urban Development, Energy and Water Resources. Development Commissioner, Principal Secretaries and Secretaries of different departments and were also present.