Odisha to Install 21,300 Tube Wells, Build 1.6 Lakh Houses

Bhubaneswar: In a significant step to tackle the drinking water crisis during the summer season, the Odisha government has announced the installation of 21,300 new tube wells across the state. The move is aimed at ensuring safe and equitable access to drinking water, particularly in areas grappling with severe shortages.

Drinking Water and Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik made the announcement on Friday, stating that the new tube wells will supplement the existing 5.2 lakh installations across Odisha. “No community will be left without access to drinking water,” the minister assured, adding that all water-related grievances will be resolved within seven days.

In addition to addressing the water crisis, the state government has also sanctioned the construction of 1.60 lakh new houses under the Antyodaya Gruha Yojana. The scheme will give priority to differently-abled individuals, destitute families, and those affected by natural disasters such as floods and cyclones.

“The work orders for some houses have already been issued, and the rest are in the pipeline,” Naik informed.

Both initiatives form part of the state’s broader efforts to enhance rural infrastructure and support vulnerable communities.