Odisha Wildlife Board Endorses Six Key Water Projects

Bhubaneswar: The 12th meeting of the Standing Committee of the State Board for Wildlife, chaired by Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia, has recommended six crucial water projects for approval.

Three irrigation projects in Angul and Mayurbhanj districts aim to provide reliable water access to farmers, boosting agriculture and rural livelihoods.

Additionally, three drinking water projects will serve remote settlements in Satkosia, Simlipal, and Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuaries, addressing urgent public health needs.

The proposals, reviewed under the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022, will now be forwarded to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who chairs the State Board for Wildlife.

If approved, they will be sent to the National Board for Wildlife for final clearance.

Officials, including MLA Irasis Acharya, Principal Secretary Bhaskar Jyoti Sharma, PCCF Dr K. Murugesan, and Chief Wildlife Warden Prem Kumar Jha, attended the meeting.

The projects are expected to balance conservation priorities with sustainable development, ensuring water security and rural prosperity across Odisha.