Odisha to Conduct Survey of Urban Areas Facing Drinking Water Shortage

Bhubaneswar, Jan 7 : The Odisha government has announced a comprehensive survey of urban pockets facing drinking water shortages, aiming to strengthen potable water systems and address seasonal scarcities.

Highlighting rising water stress due to rapid urbanisation, climate variability, and seasonal shortages, Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department, said the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO) has been tasked with assessing source sustainability, treatment and storage capacity, distribution efficiency, and peak seasonal demand across urban local bodies.

The survey will help the State Government prioritise interventions, improve emergency preparedness, and plan targeted investments. Padhee, who reviewed the Water Security Plan for Bhubaneswar and surrounding areas, also directed WATCO to ensure timely completion of ongoing and proposed water supply projects, keeping in mind the city’s growing population and urban expansion.

Debabrata Mohanty, Managing Director of WATCO, presented the current water supply scenario, highlighting a demand–supply gap in Bhubaneswar. With a population increase from 8.40 lakh in 2011 to an estimated 13.03 lakh in 2025, the city’s daily water demand of 304 million litres exceeds the existing supply of 238.50 MLD, a gap currently managed through groundwater.

Water is presently supplied through six treatment plants drawing water from the Mahanadi, Kuakhai, and Daya rivers. To address the shortfall, a 130 MLD Water Treatment Plant at Mundali is expected to be commissioned within six months, while a 20 MLD plant at Naharkanta is planned by 2028. Additionally, a proposal to lift 1000 MLD of raw water from the Mahanadi River is under consideration to meet Bhubaneswar’s water needs for the next 50 years.

“The upcoming Mundali plant will ensure reliable water supply to all apartments and institutional establishments in Bhubaneswar, significantly improving service coverage,” Mohanty said.