Odisha has emerged as a top state in urban development, securing the first position nationwide for successful implementation of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0. Launched in October 2021 and extended until March 2027, AMRUT 2.0 aims to ensure universal water supply, water body rejuvenation, and enhanced urban infrastructure. The state has made significant progress across 89 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), with 345 projects approved at an estimated cost of Rs 4030.18 crore, covering water supply and waterbody rejuvenation initiatives.
Under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme, Odisha has completed 99 projects, with others progressing steadily through various implementation stages. The state’s Housing and Urban Development department highlighted near-total fund utilization, indicating strong financial planning and efficient project management. Notable achievements include the commissioning of seven Water Treatment Plants with a total capacity of 43 MLD, benefiting 2.83 lakh citizens, and the operationalization of 24×7 water supply systems in key urban centers, along with over 2.7 lakh household water connections.
Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra of the Housing and Urban Development department emphasized Odisha’s commitment to ensuring reliable water access and robust urban infrastructure, leading to the top rank under AMRUT 2.0. The state’s focus remains on providing safe water access to every household, efficient urban systems in every city, and enhanced service delivery by every ULB. Initiatives like “Pay Jal Survekshan” and “Jai Hi AMRUT” have earned Odisha incentives, driving improved water management and reuse projects. Community-driven programs such as “AMRUT Mitra” and “Women for Tree” have furthered environmental sustainability through plantation drives and waterbody rejuvenation by women self-help groups.
