Odisha SEC Clears ₹222.20‑Cr Urban Flood Project for Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: The State Executive Committee (SEC) has approved a Rs 222.20-crore project to address urban flooding and waterlogging in Bhubaneswar.

The initiative, funded with Rs 200 crore from the Centre and Rs 22.20 crore from the state, will strengthen stormwater drainage, restore lakes, promote rainwater harvesting, and enhance water security.

The project also includes early warning systems, flood risk assessments, and capacity‑building measures to improve disaster resilience.

In addition, the SEC sanctioned a Rs 1.77-crore heatwave mitigation plan for Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.

This will provide multipurpose rest shelters, vetiver cooling mats at bus stops, reflective roof painting, vetiver roof shading, and drinking water facilities.

The committee reviewed disaster management allocations of Rs 2,147 crore, noting that Rs 1,064.48 crore has already been spent, with 92.93% of released funds accounted for.

Other approvals include forest fire risk mitigation, strengthening ODRAF and Fire Services communication systems, and procurement of HF/VHF equipment, VSAT terminals, and satellite phones.

Village‑level volunteer task forces will be formed in 3,000 non‑cyclone shelter villages to support early warning, rescue, first aid, relief, and psycho‑social assistance.

Chief Secretary Anu Garg emphasised timely implementation, transparent fund use, and technology‑driven monitoring to reinforce Odisha’s disaster management framework.