Odisha Governor Proposes Interlinking of Water Basins to Curb Flood Risks

Bhubaneswar, Aug 26 – Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Tuesday proposed intra-linking of the state’s water basins to mitigate recurring flood risks and strengthen water management systems.

Chairing a high-level review meeting at Raj Bhavan on the prevailing flood situation and preparedness in affected districts, the Governor said linking river systems could help channel excess water from flood-prone areas to water-deficient regions.

“This will not only reduce flood risks but also improve irrigation, recharge groundwater, ensure safe drinking water, and support rural livelihoods,” Dr. Kambhampati emphasized. He also called for the preparation of a comprehensive strategy paper and periodic studies on interlinking and intra-linking of rivers.

The Governor suggested constructing barrages to divert surplus water to village tanks for irrigation and other uses, which, he said, would simultaneously address water scarcity and disaster risks. Stressing vigilance, he urged the Revenue and Disaster Management Department to ensure “zero casualties” during the ongoing flood crisis.

Commending the government’s response efforts, Dr. Kambhampati said, “The best thing we can do is to prioritize human life.”

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, Additional Chief Secretary-cum-Special Relief Commissioner Deo Ranjan Singh, Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Governor Roopa Roshan Sahoo, Additional Special Relief Commissioner Manish Agrawal, and senior Water Resources officials were present.

Officials apprised the Governor of the situation in Balasore, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, and Sundargarh, highlighting monitoring mechanisms, flood preparedness measures, deployment of disaster response forces, relief assistance, and shelter arrangements.

Appreciating the department’s commitment, the Governor lauded officials and field staff for ensuring essential services to affected people. Minister Pujari assured that round-the-clock vigilance is being maintained to handle any exigency and reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives.