The Odisha government has stepped up its urban infrastructure push by allocating Rs 1,500 crore to the SUJALA programme for the 2026–27 financial year. The fresh investment is aimed at accelerating the state’s long-term plan to ensure uninterrupted round-the-clock drinking water supply to every urban household.
The decision was finalised during a high-level review meeting chaired by Usha Padhee, where officials approved a phased three-year execution strategy to achieve universal urban water coverage across the state.
38 More Urban Local Bodies to Be Covered in 2026–27
After successfully integrating nine Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) under the 24×7 water supply network during 2025–26, the state is now preparing for a much larger expansion.
Under the new roadmap, 38 additional ULBs will be brought under the continuous water supply system in 2026–27. A second phase in 2027–28 will extend the network to another 38 ULBs.
Once completed, the programme is expected to address the drinking water needs of nearly 31.5 lakh residents across 86 ULBs in Odisha. Current estimates suggest that these urban centres collectively consume around 452 million litres per day (MLD).
Over 500 Water Projects Under Implementation
The SUJALA programme has already emerged as one of the state’s flagship urban development initiatives. At present, 544 water infrastructure projects have been sanctioned, of which 289 have already become operational.
For the 2026–27 fiscal year, the government has lined up 391 projects, including 102 new works. In the following financial year, an additional Rs 978 crore will be spent on 92 separate projects aimed at further strengthening the urban drinking water network.
Officials believe the next phase of implementation will be crucial in improving water reliability, reducing supply gaps, and modernising urban civic services.
Focus Shifts to Sustainable Water Management
Alongside infrastructure expansion, the state government is also sharpening its focus on sustainable water management.
During the review meeting, officials were instructed to speed up ongoing works and identify alternative or untapped water sources to meet rising urban demand. Departments were also asked to ensure that treated drinking water is not diverted for non-essential activities such as vehicle washing, gardening, or construction work.
The move is intended to preserve high-quality potable water primarily for household consumption and improve long-term supply sustainability.
Urban Infrastructure Push Gains Momentum
The latest investment under the SUJALA programme reflects the broader urban transformation agenda of the Odisha government. With rapid urbanisation increasing pressure on civic amenities, uninterrupted water supply has become a major priority for city planners and policymakers.
If implemented on schedule, the expanded 24×7 water supply network is expected to significantly improve quality of life, strengthen public health outcomes, and support the growing urban economy across the state.
