Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards strengthening irrigation infrastructure and enhancing agricultural resilience in western Odisha, the Upper Lanth Medium Irrigation Project is set to transform the irrigation prospects of drought-prone Belpada Block in Balangir district.
The project will provide more reliable irrigation to 4,700 hectares of cultivable land, generating an annual irrigation potential of 6,105 hectares across Kharif and Rabi seasons.
The project is designed to create irrigation potential over 3,990 hectares during Kharif and 2,115 hectares during Rabi, enabling farmers to extend cultivation beyond the monsoon season. Improved access to assured irrigation is expected to enhance cropping intensity, increase agricultural productivity and strengthen the livelihoods of farming communities in the region.
A major component of the project is the construction of a Rs 143.98 crore spillway across the Lanth River near Chikili village in Patnagarh subdivision. The 108-metre-long spillway, equipped with seven radial gates, will facilitate efficient reservoir regulation and ensure the safe passage of excess water during periods of high inflow. It will play a vital role in maintaining optimal reservoir levels, improving water storage management and ensuring the effective utilization of available water resources.
The spillway will form the backbone of the reservoir regulation system, enabling optimum storage during normal conditions and controlled discharge of surplus water during high-flow periods. It will also help protect downstream areas and riverine infrastructure while ensuring the availability of stored water for irrigation and drinking water requirements during lean seasons.
The project also envisages an extensive distribution network comprising an earth-fill dam and two main canals. The 16.08 km Left Main Canal and 6.66 km Right Main Canal will facilitate the distribution of stored water across the command area, extending irrigation benefits to farmers and improving agricultural prospects in the drought-prone region.
Beyond irrigation, the project has also incorporated provisions to address the drinking water needs of local communities. An allocation of 2.19 million cubic metres of surface water has been earmarked to meet the drinking water requirements of villages within the command area. This integrated approach will help address both agricultural and household water needs, contributing to improved water security and rural well-being.
The foundation stone of the project was laid on 2 November 2024. Its inclusion among four new irrigation projects in Odisha’s Agriculture Budget for 2025-26 reflects the State Government’s commitment to strengthening irrigation infrastructure and supporting agricultural development. Following the grant of administrative approval, the tendering process is currently underway.
Once completed, the Upper Lanth Medium Irrigation Project is expected to emerge as a major catalyst for agricultural transformation in Balangir district. By ensuring better water availability, expanding irrigation coverage and supporting drinking water needs, the project will strengthen climate resilience, enhance farm productivity and contribute to the vision of Viksit Odisha.
