Historic moment for Bolangir: Lower Suktel Dam inaugurated, transforming agriculture landscape

Odisha: In a monumental leap towards agricultural prosperity, Odisha's Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik, inaugurated the Lower Suktel Irrigation Project in Bolangir, marking a significant milestone for the region's development. The project, a testament to the state government's commitment to irrigation advancements, aims to transform Bolangir's arid landscape, providing water to nearly 1.00 lakh acres (40,000 Ha) across 203 villages and benefiting around 75,000 farmers.

A Paradigm Shift for Bolangir:

Bolangir, historically known for its arid and dry conditions, receives an average rainfall of 110 cms annually, with only 31 percent of its land irrigated. The Lower Suktel Project emerges as a game-changer, holding the promise of altering the socio-economic landscape of the district, historically plagued by poverty, droughts, and distress migration.

Strategic Implementation Under 5T:

The implementation of the Lower Suktel Project aligns with the state's 5T initiative, emphasizing technology, teamwork, transparency, transformation, and time limit. V K Pandian, the then 5T Secretary, spearheaded the project's monitoring, facilitating collaboration between the district administration, relevant departments, and the Chief Minister's Office.

Decisions that had been stagnant for years found swift resolutions under the 5T mandate. The project, stalled for over two decades due to public agitation and political protests, gained momentum with proactive efforts to sensitize the community on its long-term benefits.

Proactive Resettlement and Development:

To ensure smooth progress, the state authorities provided free ration, temporary work sheds, and conveyance facilities during evacuation. Resettlement colonies near the district headquarters were equipped with essential amenities, including spacious plots, concrete roads, illuminated streets, and educational facilities.

Skill development and financial literacy programs were prioritized, emphasizing holistic development. The dedication of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and VK Pandian, along with relentless efforts by the district administration, ensured the realization of this transformative project.

Breaking Silos and Leveraging Technology:

The Lower Suktel Project is a testament to effective teamwork under 5T, breaking down bureaucratic silos and overcoming implementation challenges. Monthly and quarterly reviews involving all stakeholders, proactive handling of political protests, and strategic sensitization efforts exemplify the collaborative approach adopted.

The project also leveraged technology extensively, incorporating pressurized underground pipelines, composite girders, and automated radial spillway gates operated through Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA). The use of technology aligns with the 5T initiative's emphasis on leveraging innovation for efficient governance.

Prospects of Prosperity:

The Lower Suktel Project is poised to bring about prosperity in the region by creating round-the-year farm jobs, augmenting farm income, and contributing to socio-economic upliftment. Additionally, the project's micro-irrigation design positions it as one of the most water-efficient projects in the country.

The direct and indirect benefits of the project extend to pisciculture, horticulture, agro-industries, small-scale industries, and tourism. The inauguration of the Lower Suktel Dam symbolizes the dawn of a new era for Bolangir, mirroring the broader developmental vision of a 'New Odisha.'