Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Thursday reviewed the progress of ongoing water supply and sewerage projects under the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO), with a focus on timely execution, financial utilisation and uninterrupted service delivery.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra reviewed the projects and related operations during a meeting attended by senior officials of the Housing & Urban Development Department, WATCO, the Odisha Water Supply and Sewerage Board (OWSSB) and other concerned agencies.
WATCO Managing Director Debabrata Mohanty made a detailed presentation covering the corporation’s operational jurisdiction, ongoing water supply and sewerage projects, and the status of Water Treatment Plants (WTPs) and Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs).
The review covered the physical and financial progress of major projects, expenditure against budgetary provisions, project timelines and measures required to ensure timely completion of ongoing works.
The minister reviewed the status of water supply infrastructure and sewerage projects, with particular emphasis on effective utilisation of funds and improved services for citizens. The functioning and progress of WTPs and STPs were also discussed, along with issues related to project execution and operational requirements.
Financial performance of WATCO was another key area of discussion. The meeting examined budget allocations, expenditure, and the pace of financial utilisation across different projects. Officials were advised to closely monitor project-wise expenditure and resolve implementation-related issues in a timely manner.
The meeting also discussed arrangements for the taking over and handing over of the newly constituted Notified Area Councils (NACs) falling under WATCO’s jurisdiction.
The proposed transfer of sewerage works from WATCO to OWSSB, in accordance with the Government Notification, was also reviewed. The transition process focused on clearly defining responsibilities and ensuring continuity of services during the handover.
The meeting further reviewed WATCO’s planned Information, Education and Communication activities under the SUJAL scheme, scheduled from October 2 to October 16, 2026.
The campaign will focus on creating greater public awareness about water supply services, responsible water use, service-related practices and citizen participation. The importance of effective communication and public outreach in strengthening citizen engagement was also discussed.
Dr Mahapatra directed officials to closely monitor ongoing projects and associated activities, with emphasis on timely execution, financial discipline, quality of works and effective service delivery. He also stressed better coordination among implementing agencies and prompt action to address bottlenecks.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the Director (Projects), WATCO, who expressed gratitude to the Minister and all participants.
