GLOBIVOX

Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar is currently facing a significant daily water shortage of around 65.5 million litres, raising concerns over the city’s ability to meet the growing demand for drinking water. In response, the Odisha government has directed concerned departments to fast-track ongoing and proposed water supply projects to bridge the widening gap.

Officials said the shortfall has been caused by rapid urban expansion, increased population density, and rising consumption during peak demand periods. While the city’s water supply infrastructure continues to operate at near-capacity levels, demand has surged beyond available production and distribution limits.

Following a high-level review meeting, the state government instructed agencies to accelerate the completion of water augmentation projects, strengthen distribution networks, and remove bottlenecks delaying implementation. Emphasis has also been placed on improving storage capacity and ensuring equitable water distribution across all zones of the city.

Authorities have been asked to closely monitor daily supply levels and prioritise areas experiencing acute shortages. Temporary measures such as water tankers are being deployed in vulnerable localities to prevent disruption of essential services.

The government has also underlined the need for long-term planning, including source diversification, reduction of leakages, and adoption of sustainable water management practices. Officials stated that coordinated efforts between state agencies, urban local bodies, and contractors will be critical to stabilising the city’s water supply in the coming months.

Residents have been urged to use water judiciously as the administration works to strengthen infrastructure and restore balance between demand and supply.

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha capital is grappling with a daily water deficit of nearly 65.5 million litres, putting pressure on civic infrastructure and affecting residents across several localities. The widening gap between demand and supply has prompted the Odisha government to issue directives for fast-tracking critical water supply and augmentation projects.

According to official sources, Bhubaneswar’s existing water production capacity is struggling to keep pace with rising consumption driven by population growth, expansion of residential layouts, and increased commercial activity. Seasonal factors and declining groundwater levels have further compounded the challenge, particularly in peripheral and newly developed areas.

In a recent review meeting, the state government asked departments and executing agencies to expedite pending works, ensure timely completion of ongoing projects, and address administrative and technical delays. Officials were instructed to prioritise projects aimed at increasing raw water intake, treatment capacity, and last-mile distribution.

The government has also emphasised strengthening pipeline networks to minimise losses caused by leakages and unauthorised connections. Regular monitoring of water supply schedules and pressure levels has been ordered to ensure fair distribution and prevent disparities among different zones of the city.

To manage the immediate impact, civic authorities have stepped up tanker services in areas experiencing acute shortages. Residents in affected localities have reported irregular supply timings, forcing many households to rely on alternative sources to meet daily needs.

Alongside short-term relief measures, the government is pushing for long-term solutions such as source diversification, rejuvenation of existing water bodies, and adoption of water-efficient technologies. Public awareness campaigns promoting responsible water usage are also being planned to reduce wastage.

Officials said sustained coordination between state agencies, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation, and infrastructure contractors will be essential to stabilise the city’s water supply system and meet future demand as Bhubaneswar continues to expand.