Odisha: Government announces new scheme worth Rs 500 crore for riverfront and waterbody development
Odisha: The government has announced an ambitious plan to revitalize rivers and water bodies flowing through urban areas and along city borders. The state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, approved the “Waterfront Development Scheme” on Monday. A total of ₹500 crore has been allocated for this scheme over five years.
The government stated that the main objective of this scheme is to revitalize urban riverfronts and urban water bodies. It aims to not only clean and conserve these water sources but also transform them into accessible, environmentally friendly, and useful spaces for recreation and social activities. This will not only improve the quality of urban life but also sustainably maintain environmental balance.
The Housing and Urban Development (H&UD) Department will play a key role in implementing this scheme. Development authorities and urban local bodies (ULBs) will also be involved in this initiative. The government aims to implement the scheme effectively and timely through a coordinated effort by various departments and local bodies.
Under the scheme, modern infrastructure will be developed to make the selected riverfronts and waterbodies clean, safe, and attractive. This will include walkways, boating and recreational facilities, gardens, lighting systems, and public seating areas. Furthermore, special attention will be paid to greenery and plantations around waterbodies, enhancing the freshness and cleanliness of the urban environment.
The state government also stated that the initiative’s objective is not merely beautification, but also to strengthen the urban ecosystem and ensure sustainable use of natural resources. The scheme has been designed keeping in mind the needs of citizens, tourists, and local communities. Development projects under it will be sustainable and inclusive in the long term.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi stated that the development of waterbodies and riverfronts in cities is an important means of improving the quality of urban life. He stated that the scheme will not only protect waterbodies and rivers, but will also provide new public and recreational spaces for locals and tourists.
Experts believe that the conservation and development of urban water bodies is a major step towards urban water management and environmental protection. This will also enable flood control, water table improvement, and water quality improvement.
Overall, the Waterfront Development Scheme is an ambitious initiative in Odisha that balances both urban development and environmental protection. This scheme will not only beautify and clean cities, but will also benefit local communities and the tourism sector, strengthening the state’s overall urban development.
