Ganjam mega water project: Inordinate delay raises fears of acute water shortages

As temperature soars with the onset of summer, residents of Ganjam are gripped by concerns over a looming water crisis. The much-anticipated Mega Water Project in Ganjam district, supposed to bring relief, continues to stagnate, raising fears of acute water shortages.

The ongoing water shortage is a pressing concern for its residents, who are desperate for an end to this perennial issue alongside the completion of a long-promised large-scale drinking water project. Residents of Digaphandi and Sanakhemundi have expressed their frustration, as they turn on taps only to find them dry, year after year.

Prolonged Delay:

Initiated during the previous Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government, the ambitious project aimed to deliver accessible and clean drinking water to Ganjam's doorsteps for every household. However, delays have rendered this vision incomplete, with the slow advancement of construction work frustrating residents, especially in the regions of Digapahandi and Sanakhemundi which have suffered prolonged water distress.

Budgeted at Rs 362 crore, the project is divided into two major schemes. The first scheme, allocated Rs 220 crore, proposes a water treatment facility at Baghalati dam to serve 16 panchayats in Chikiti block and 14 in Patrapur block. Meanwhile, the second scheme targets 25 panchayats in Digapahandi and eight in Sanakhemundi, with plans for a treatment plant at the Ghodaahada dam, supplemented by Rs 50 crore anicut in Jakamarapalli for Digapahandi NAC.

Even as the pipeline work has concluded, further progress remains stalled.

On the other hand, the Salia dam pipeline remains incomplete, further complicating the situation. Despite the foundation stone being laid by then Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in 2021, and a promised finish by 2024, areas such as 29 panchayats in Khallikote block and one in Beguniapada anxiously await progress.

Awaiting Completion:

When contacted, the Executive Engineer of the Rural Water Supply Department reassured that all efforts are being maximised to expedite the project’s delivery, yet concerns persist among the local population over when their taps will finally quench their parched hopes.

“We've heard many promises, but not one has brought us water,” lamented a Sanakhemundi resident, reflecting local disillusionment with the endless wait.