Bhubaneswar: Odisha has emerged as the leading state in the country in the implementation of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0, marking significant progress in strengthening urban water infrastructure and service delivery across cities.
Launched in October 2021 and extended till March 2027, AMRUT 2.0 focuses on ensuring universal water supply, rejuvenation of water bodies and improving urban infrastructure. In Odisha, according to an official release, the mission is being implemented across 89 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), with a total of 345 projects approved at an estimated cost of Rs 4,030.18 crore.
Out of these, 99 projects have already been completed, while the remaining are at various stages of implementation. The state has also achieved near-total utilisation of available funds, indicating efficient financial planning and execution.
As part of the mission, Odisha has strengthened its urban water infrastructure through the commissioning of seven Water Treatment Plants with a combined capacity of 43 MLD, benefiting around 2.83 lakh citizens. Additionally, 24×7 water supply systems have been made operational in key urban areas, along with the provision of over 2.7 lakh household water connections. Overall, more than 5 lakh urban residents have directly benefited from these initiatives.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said the state’s performance under AMRUT 2.0 reflects a focused approach towards ensuring reliable water access and efficient urban systems.
“Securing the top rank under AMRUT 2.0 reflects Odisha’s focused approach towards ensuring reliable water access and stronger urban infrastructure. Our priority is clear— every household should have access to safe water, every city should have efficient systems and every ULB should be empowered to deliver better services. We will continue to build cities that are resilient, inclusive and future-ready, aligned with the vision of a Viksit Odisha,” he said.
The state has also utilised complementary initiatives of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to further strengthen outcomes. Under programmes such as Pay Jal Survekshan and Jai Hind AMRUT, Odisha has secured incentives and advanced projects aimed at improving water management and reuse.
Community-led initiatives including AMRUT Mitra and Women for Tree have contributed to environmental sustainability through plantation drives and waterbody rejuvenation, with active participation from women self-help groups.
In addition, Odisha has introduced innovative financing mechanisms under the Credit Enhancement Initiative, enabling smaller ULBs to take up infrastructure projects and expand service delivery.
