Odisha to Deliver 24/7 Clean Drinking Water to All Urban Homes by 2027 | Full Plan

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Bhubaneswar, April 7, 2025 – In a landmark move to ensure universal access to clean drinking water, the Odisha government has unveiled a comprehensive plan to provide round-the-clock, high-quality water supply to all municipalities by March 2027. The initiative, spearheaded by the Housing and Urban Development Department, aims to transform urban water infrastructure and optimize river water utilization through strategic barrages. 

A Vision for Sustainable Water Supply 

Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra announced the ambitious project during a high-level review meeting, emphasizing the state’s commitment to ensuring 24/7 water availability for every household. 

"Our goal is to leave no household without access to safe and reliable drinking water. By leveraging advanced infrastructure, smart technology, and efficient river water management, we will bridge the existing gaps in urban water supply," said Dr. Mohapatra. 

Key Strategies for Implementation 

1. Barrages to Harness River Water – Currently, only 17% of Odisha’s river water is utilized, with the rest flowing into the sea. The government plans to construct barrages to maximize water storage and distribution, ensuring sustainable supply even during dry seasons. 
2. Accelerating Pending Projects – The minister directed officials to identify bottlenecks in ongoing water supply projects and expedite their completion. Regular monitoring and reviews will be conducted to meet the 2027 deadline. 
3. Smart Metering Pilot Initiative – To improve billing efficiency and reduce wastage, smart water meters will be introduced in select urban areas on a trial basis. 
4. Enhanced Oversight & Accountability – Principal Secretary Usha Padhee, Watco MD Guru Charan Das, and other senior officials have been tasked with ensuring seamless execution through rigorous supervision. 

Why This Initiative Matters 

Odisha’s urban centers have long faced challenges such as erratic supply, water contamination, and aging pipelines. This initiative not only promises uninterrupted access but also aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6) for clean water and sanitation. 

Next Steps 

Rapid mobilization of resources for barrage construction. 
Strengthening collaboration with urban local bodies for last-mile connectivity. 
Adoption of advanced leak detection systems to minimize water loss. 
With this bold step, Odisha sets a new benchmark in public utility management, ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future for its urban residents. 

Stay tuned for further updates as the state gears up for this transformative journey.