Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has approved a tender worth Rs 105.62 crore for the construction of an in-stream water storage project at Tustapali village in Balangir district to address chronic water scarcity in drought-prone areas.

The project, proposed across the river Lanth, a tributary of the Tel river, near Tustapali village in Sainatala block, is expected to be completed within 30 calendar months. The approved tender amount of Rs 105,62,33,960 excludes Goods and Services Tax (GST).

The project aims to conserve monsoon runoff and ensure a reliable water supply during dry periods in the district, which frequently faces water shortages. Around 90 per cent of the region's annual rainfall occurs during the southwest monsoon between June and October. A substantial volume of this rainwater currently flows away without being adequately stored for use during the lean season.

The proposed in-stream storage structure will capture and retain surface water in the riverbed, creating a water reserve to support local communities during periods of limited rainfall.

According to the project details, the initiative is expected to ensure a year-round drinking water supply for 12 drought-prone villages in Sainatala block. It will also help protect rural livelihoods by providing water for livestock, fisheries and other activities affected by seasonal dry spells.

Another key benefit of the project will be groundwater recharge. By retaining water, the structure is expected to improve the availability of groundwater, stabilise the local ecosystem and help tackle water depletion and desertification.

The project is intended to strengthen long-term water security and climate resilience in one of Odisha's drought-sensitive regions by making better use of seasonal rainfall.