Bhubaneswar: The State Cabinet has approved a major water conservation initiative to construct new “Bridge-cum-Weir” structures across the state.
The scheme aims to store adequate quantity of water during the monsoon inside streams and upstream of bridges. The stored water will be used for minor irrigation, domestic supply, and livestock feeding.
Under the proposal by the Rural Development Department, the scheme will be implemented over 5 years, from 2026-27 to 2030-31, with a total outlay of Rs 600 Crore.
As part of the plan, 508 new Bridge-cum-Weir projects are targeted to be taken up. The Cabinet has also approved completion of all 162 ongoing projects under the scheme within the same period from 2026-27 to 2030-31.Officials said the project is expected to improve water availability in rural areas, support agriculture, and address drinking water needs during the non-monsoon months.
With Cabinet approval in place, the Rural Development Department will now begin execution of the projects in a phased manner.
