Bhubaneswar: The State government has expedited restoration work at Janivili Anicut on Rushikulya river in Odisha’s Ganjam district. The massive flood triggered by heavy rain following cyclone Arnab had caused extensive damage to the anicut, which is crucial for drinking water supply to Brahmapur city and its adjoining areas.
In a swift and coordinated response to the extensive damage caused by flood, the department of Water Resources has undertaken mission-mode restoration of Janivili Anicut. “The Water Resources Department has accorded top priority to the restoration work at Janivili Anicut to safeguard the drinking water needs of lakhs of residents,” said the state government on Thursday.
According to the state government, the ongoing efforts focus on strengthening the left-side abutment and rehabilitating the upstream and downstream aprons to ensure the structural stability and long-term functionality of the anicut, while safeguarding its critical role in sustaining Berhampur’s drinking water supply.
“As an immediate intervention, upstream stone dumping is being undertaken to divert river water towards the WATCO cofferdam, which supports the city’s drinking water supply system. Simultaneously, preparatory works are underway for the reconstruction of the damaged components, including the left-side abutment and upstream and downstream aprons. These measures are aimed at creating safe working conditions for undertaking permanent restoration,” stated the government.
The Odisha Construction Corporation Limited (OCCL) has been entrusted with the restoration work, which is being pursued on the highest priority, with manpower, machinery and construction materials mobilised on a war footing. Multiple activities are being undertaken simultaneously to expedite the restoration process and ensure early completion, it added.
Janivili Anicut holds immense significance for Berhampur’s drinking water security. The WATCO-managed water supply system serves as the primary drinking water lifeline for the city, supplying approximately 90 million litres per day (MLD) to nearly 70,000 households and benefiting more than 5 lakh people
“Through swift intervention, continuous monitoring and coordinated execution, the Water Resources Department is making concerted efforts to restore this vital infrastructure at the earliest. The ongoing mission-mode operation reflects the government’s commitment to protecting critical public assets, strengthening infrastructure resilience and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of essential services to the people of Odisha,” said an official.
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