Bhubaneswar: In a major move to combat the drinking water crisis during the summer months, the Odisha government has announced plans to install 21,300 new tube wells across the State, said Drinking Water and Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at ensuring equitable and reliable access to clean drinking water. The State currently has 5.2 lakh tube wells, and the new installations will be focused in areas facing acute shortages.
“No community will be left without access to drinking water,” Naik assured on Friday, adding that all water-related grievances will be addressed within seven days.
In addition to the water supply boost, the state government has also approved the construction of 1.60 lakh new houses under the Antyodaya Gruha Yojana. The initiative will prioritize 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, while others are in the pipeline,” the Minister informed.
